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July/August 2025

Mediation Musings: Jaws

Sara Barnes

Distracting oneself required some concerted effort in 1975. There was so little that was predictable in the United States. The continuing Vietnam war and the fall of Saigon, the erosion of the presidency (vice president corruption/resigned, Watergate and the presidential resignation), the post-assassination decade, the destabilized economy (oil embargo, stock market crash, unemployment and recession crises), ongoing movements for justice for African Americans, women, LGBTQ. An engaging movie was welcomed by many.

Filmed on Martha’s Vineyard, Jaws employed and was adopted by many Islanders. There was something about the story—silly and outdated leaders holding strong to simplistic, unexamined solutions. It tracked with the historical period. Enter the educated and earnest scientist from Woods Hole, the new sheriff from off-Island, the grizzled shark hunter Quint. The town meeting. It may have been called Amity, but we all recognized our island.

Analyzing with a conflict lens

As your high school literature teacher will tell you, all story involves conflict. I’m often surprised at how little traction this idea has gained. You too can analyze conflict in movies, books and, well, life. Here’s the easy recipe: take an event, look for power, values, identity, belief or needs disputes; voilà, you are analyzing using a conflict resolution lens. When I asserted a few months ago that Jaws would be the perfect context as an instruction manual for conflict resolution, I hadn’t yet delved too far. Now that I’ve been rolling this around for a while, I think my instincts were right. You be the judge.

I’m only scratching the surface here, but the themes of conflict that I’m taking a stab at are: youth culture, class conflict, misogyny and us-and-them. There are so many more. You could look at this film from the POV of Hollywood and film-production power bases. You could wade into the oft-reviewed human vs. nature friction. Wampanoag perspective as the original we were here first dispute. The absence of Black people in the movie. One could study the production for conflicts derived from substance use disorder. The story could be rewritten from the perspective of the shark. The demise of the fishing industry or climate change could be your conflict backdrop. All this is to say, analyzing anything from a conflict resolution stance offers many platforms from which to dive into the conflict water.

Jaws: A conflict lesson at 50

What would happen if the plot of Jaws occurred today? Well, immediate cell phone footage would have been broadcast, and opinions on social media would abound. Quint might have been saved by drones or satellite surveys. The town meeting may have had more participation through hybrid use of teleconference and been translated into Brazilian Portuguese. The leaders may have been women or nonbinary people.

A similar occurrence related to wildlife would, today, be placed into the hands of the tribal members in the Wampanoag Fish and Wildlife service. Off-Island expertise would likely be welcomed in the form of NOAA or WHOI scientists, as they do tend to be respected by Islanders. Turns out that although some people did remain afraid to go into the water after Jaws, many others became excited by and champions of sharks, whose status has improved, likely as a result of the movie.

I think, though, the basic human nature reaction when crisis hits would look pretty similar. And it is true that Jaws looks somewhat tame compared to the conflict challenges we face today. Fifty years on, Jaws continues to entertain. It is also a great canvas upon which to superimpose conflict resolution lessons. We can learn from our mistakes and our successes. Eventually. I remain optimistic.

•••

Read a much longer version here, focused on four of the conflicts in the Jaws movie: youth culture, social class, misogyny, and us and them bias. And Sara’s faux pas in the movie theater.

Grant Spotlight: Expanding Access to Justice

We're honored to announce that our organization has been awarded $22,500 from the Massachusetts Bar Foundation’s IOLTA Grants Program. This generous funding will help support and strengthen our court-connected mediation services in both Dukes County and Bristol County—ensuring that more individuals and families have access to fair, timely and affordable conflict resolution, especially during times of legal uncertainty. We are deeply grateful to the Massachusetts Bar Foundation for recognizing the importance of accessible mediation in building more equitable and compassionate systems of justice.

Learn more about the MBF’s impact across the Commonwealth

at https://www.massbarfoundation.org/about.

Reflections on Independence & Interdependence

On the Island:

As we gather for summer holidays, fireworks and festivals across Martha’s Vineyard, it’s natural to reflect on the idea of independence—personal freedom, self-reliance, and the unique spirit of Island life. But here on the Vineyard, we also know how deeply our well-being depends on one another.

Living on an island means navigating shared spaces, limited resources and close relationships. Whether it’s coordinating with neighbors, supporting elders, resolving housing issues or preparing for storms, we are constantly reminded of our interdependence.

Mediation plays a vital role in this balance. It’s not just a service to resolve disputes—it’s a practice rooted in mutual respect, listening and shared problem-solving. When people come together to find solutions through dialogue, they’re reinforcing the very fabric of a healthy, connected community.

This summer, as we enjoy the independence that comes with long days and open water, we also celebrate the strength that comes from being in it together.

One island. Many voices.

One conversation at a time.

In Bristol County:

Bristol County is a place of proud independence—home to generations, diverse neighborhoods and deeply rooted local culture. From the mill cities of Fall River and New Bedford to the small towns of the region, there’s a spirit of resilience and self-reliance that runs deep.

At the same time, the challenges facing our communities—housing instability, strained relationships, generational divides—require collaboration, communication and care.

Whether a tenant working to stay housed, a parent navigating family court or a neighbor seeking understanding, all rely on each other to create safe, just and respectful spaces.

That’s where mediation comes in. It honors the autonomy of each individual while making room for connection and shared solutions. It’s not about winning or losing—it’s about hearing and being heard.

This summer, as we welcome new connections and celebrate long-standing traditions, we’re proud to be part of the growing network of support across Bristol County.

Many communities. Shared challenges. Stronger together.

We are here to serve our community, all residents, regardless of immigration status. See information about immigration here.

Estamos aqui para servir nossa comunidade, todos os residentes, independentemente do status de imigração. Veja informações sobre imigração aqui.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS CORNER

On Saturday, June 7, our Board gathered at beautiful Slough Farm for a day of reflection, celebration and forward thinking. Surrounded by nature and community spirit, we took time to acknowledge the successes of the past year and to continue charting a thoughtful path for the future, with deep gratitude for the leadership and heart that continue to guide our work. We’re also grateful to Slough Farm for generously hosting us and providing the beautiful venue and to Deon’s Kitchen for the delicious food!

COURSES

Fall 2025 MV Mediation Courses

are OPEN for Registration!

These interactive courses are helpful for building practical conflict resolution tools, whether you're starting out or deepening your knowledge base. Click here for a detailed list of additional trainings and professional development opportunities.

Conflict Coaching • Sept 8

Conflict Essentials • Sept 16

Intro to Mediation • Oct 21

Advanced • Mondays 4 - 6pm

Workplace Conflict Management Cohort • Oct 27

Visit MV Mediation Workshops & Events to view our full calendar

Events & Calendars

Look for Us at:

The Fall River Block Party on Saturday July 19, 2025
The Attleboro Block Party on Saturday August 2, 2025

Our Friends' Calendars:

MEDIATORS’ CHECK-IN

A weekly drop-in for those in the conflict resolution field including local, national and international mediators, facilitators and coaches. New topics weekly. Donations appreciated. Wednesdays at 4pm––all are welcome to join.

Aug 6 – Coaching Components: Pro/Con Planning process
Aug 13 – Group Dynamics—Neighbor Relations: Community Older Adults
Aug 20 - Group Dynamics: Space, Seating Arrangements and Flow
Aug 27 - Group Dynamics: Positions/interests, analyzing groups
September 3 – Group Dynamics: Bullying, dehumanizing/ marginalizing
September 10 – Group Dynamics: Monopolizing conversation/ silent person

Do you have a topic or series suggestion for Mediator Check-in? Send us your ideas here. Survey here https://forms.gle/J7mFfw99awtKKsS

Email education@mvmediation.org for the Zoom link.

SPECIALIZED TEAM MEETINGS

Debrief anonymized cases and discuss tips.

Wednesdays 9 – 10:30am

Team Meetings begin again in September and run through June.

September 3 • Elder/Multi-gen Mediators

September 10 • Housing Mediators

September 17 • Family and Divorce Mediators

September 24 • Small Claims Mediators

Watch this space for further updates!

DEIJ+B: DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, JUSTICE + BELONGING

Learning through

a Conflict Resolution Lens

This summer, join us in taking time to reflect on how identity, culture and history influence the way we experience and navigate conflict.

Meaningful resolution begins with cultural humility and a lifelong commitment to learning and growth.

Disability Pride Month (July)

July is Disability Pride Month—a time to honor the strength, resilience and diverse experiences of people with disabilities. In community mediation, accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s essential. This month, we raise up our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone is heard and valued.

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples (August 9)

August 9 marks the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, recognizing Indigenous communities’ cultures, contributions and ongoing struggles for rights and sovereignty. This month, we raise up of the importance of centering Indigenous voices and honoring histories.

World Humanitarian Day (August 19)

World Humanitarian Day honors the individuals and organizations working to protect and support people affected by crises around the globe. It’s a powerful reminder that compassion, community care and conflict resolution go hand in hand. This month, we raise up our dedication to meet people where they are—with empathy, dignity and a commitment to peace.

OUR PROGRAMS & SERVICES:

FAMILY MEDIATION PROGRAM

Divorce, Family & Conflict Resolution

We offer help talking with your spouse or partner about divorce, parenting issues, custody schedules, financial decisions and communication itself, and can help you to renegotiate existing plans. We also work with reconciling couples and those who have conflicts they need help to resolve.

MEDIAÇÃO EM CASOS DE FAMÍLIA E DIVÓRCIO

Divórcio, Disputas em Familia e Resolução de Conflitos

Conflitos entre marido e mulher, pais e filhos, problemas conjugais, com parceiros ou entre familiares, divórcio, custódia física e legal, planejamento para os cuidados do menor, visitação de menores, revisão do suporte financeiro e plano de visitação, divisão de bens e possível reconciliação.

info@mvmediation.org or call 508-693-2999

HOUSING MEDIATION PROGRAM

Tenant or Landlord Conflict?

We offer FREE MEDIATION for housing cases in Dukes and Bristol Counties and information about RAFT––rental financial assistance for back rent or moving out. Take a look at this article from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reporting about erroneous information about tenants being used and affecting homelessness and evictions.

MEDIAÇÃO EM CASOS DE MORADIA

Conflitos entre o proprietário e inquilinos?

Mediação GRÁTIS para qualquer tipo de conflito relativo a sua moradia nos Condados de Dukes e Bristol, e informações sobre o RAFT- programa de assistência financeira.

admin@mvmediation.org or call 508-693-2199

RE-ENTRY PROGRAM

Easier Transition from Incarceration to Community

Re-entry Mediation is FREE to incarcerated individuals, pre-release, and recently released individuals, post-release. For more information, check out our flyers for pre-released and post-released individuals.

IN-COURT AND COURT-REFERRED MEDIATION SERVICES

MV Mediation provides free mediation services for eviction cases in Bristol and Dukes Counties. We are present at District Courts in Attleboro, Fall River, Taunton and Edgartown for summary process cases. MVMC offers free services for civil cases and small claims in advance of the court date. We are also qualified to provide in-court and court-referred services for Dukes County District, Superior, Probate and Family Courts. We provide mediation for pre-criminal and 286 E harassment cases. Our Juvenile court mediators help with cases referred from the Juvenile Court. MV Mediation waives fees for cases referred by court or with an active docket number.

WORKPLACE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

MV Mediation provides support to resolve conflicts in the workplace. We provide workshops and develop conflict resolution projects with workplaces, nonprofit organizations and municipal and trades workplaces. Our confidential Workplace Management Cohort for supervisors and managers is a popular offering.

FACILITATION SERVICES

MV Mediation provides facilitation services for groups, boards of directors, organizations, companies and families. Neutral and confidential facilitation allows those who are attending the meeting to fully participate. If you need facilitation services, please reach out to discuss your needs. Read this article that describes how a facilitator can help you or your organization.

“We are in a much better place since we had a facilitator help us to pull things together. Thanks to the mediation program for all your help.” ––A recent facilitation client

SOCIAL MEDIA

Following us on social media is a great way to support MV Mediation! Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Don’t miss out on helpful tips about managing conflicts in your daily life. You will also get the latest information about community events, workshops and courses.

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THANK YOU, DONORS!

Thank you for being part of our important conflict resolution work for 40 years. Your generosity helps us to further our impact and support community needs. It’s never too late to donate! We’ve started a $40-a-month campaign to celebrate our 40th year. Your donation helps a lot––set up a monthly plan, and we will spend every penny wisely!

Donate here