As part of Early Resolution, the Office of Equal Opportunity offers mediation to employees who may be involved in a conflict that appears to violate Title VII, or any other federal or state civil rights laws. These services may be made available to situations outside this framework if the resources and time is available to do so. The mediator is an intermediary, a person in the middle, a go-between, a translator, interpreter, guide and assistant to both parties involved. It is an instrument or tool to help parties to understand their own and each other's underlying interests, in an effort to find mutually satisfactory solutions. They help parties move beyond initial positions by surfacing hidden interests, needs and constraints.
Mediators help parties improve communication.
They help parties understand interests and priorities in order for them to generate creative solutions. Mediators are able to help others discover and agree on mutually acceptable standards plus explore and assess alternative agreements. Mediators infuse safety, creativity and flexibility. Both parties must be adequately informed and volunteer to enter into the mediation process. Good faith means that each party is willing to disclose all relevant information.