Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault’s Post

Please check out this blog post (https://bit.ly/49BqdMx) from Annie E. Casey Foundation. This compelling article shares insights into the societal benefits of restorative justice diversion (RJD) for youth. For over 10 years, Community Works West RJD program has been demonstrably effective in achieving survivor satisfaction, reducing recidivism, and limiting public costs. Most importantly, for the youths, RJD centers personal accountability and increases the youth’s awareness of the ripple effects of their actions—on the person harmed, families and their community.  Community Works West restorative justice diversion program—the country’s first pre-charge model—engaged more than 150 people and facilitated over 30 cases this past year that would have otherwise been charged as felonies. Our multi-month process for each case culminated in a face-to-face meeting between survivors, the young people who harmed them, loved ones of both parties, and community members. External evaluations in 2017 and 2022 highlighted this program’s effectiveness in significantly reducing recidivism and achieving survivor satisfaction rates above 90%. We welcome further dialogue with partners on this important issue.

Go Fellows! Go Shriver! #ShriverCenteronPovertyLaw Shriver Center on Poverty Law

I support restorative justice practices. It’s a proven method to increase empathy and trauma reduction.

Are you interested in learning more about the importance of restorative practices? Are you interested in learning how to incorporate more restrorative practices within your organization, home or community? If so, this might be the training for you. Come ready to learn, ask questions and be engaged in collaborative conversations.

Dear Justice lovers, There are several influential and informative books on the topic of restorative justice. Here are some specific recommendations: 1. "The Little Book of Restorative Justice" by Howard Zehr - Howard Zehr is a prominent figure in the field of restorative justice, and this book provides a concise and accessible introduction to the principles and practices of restorative justice. It offers insights into how restorative justice can transform our understanding of crime, justice, and community. 2. "Changing Lenses: A New Focus for Crime and Justice" by Howard Zehr - Another important work by Howard Zehr, this book delves into the underlying paradigms of traditional criminal justice and presents a compelling argument for adopting restorative justice principles. It explores how shifting our perspective can lead to a more inclusive and healing approach to addressing harm. 3. "The Handbook of Restorative Justice" edited by Gerry Johnstone and Daniel W. Van Ness - This comprehensive handbook provides an in-depth exploration of restorative justice theory, research, and practice. It features contributions from leading scholars and practitioners, covering a wide range of topics related to restorative justice, including its historical context, implementation in various settings, and its intersection with the criminal justice system. 4. "Little Book of Circle Processes: A New/Old Approach to Peacemaking" by Kay Pranis - Restorative justice often involves the use of circle processes for dialogue, conflict resolution, and community-building. This book offers practical guidance on how to facilitate circle processes and integrate them into restorative justice practices, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the application of restorative approaches. 5. "The Justice Diary: An Inquiry into Justice in America" by Barbara A. White - Written by a seasoned restorative justice practitioner, this book combines personal narratives with insightful analysis to explore the complexities of the American justice system and the potential for restorative justice to address societal conflict and harm. It provides a thought-provoking perspective on the role of restorative justice in creating a more just society. 6. "Restorative Justice: How It Works" by Marian Liebmann - This practical guide offers a comprehensive overview of restorative justice principles and applications, providing examples of restorative practices in diverse contexts, including criminal justice, schools, and communities. It is designed to help readers understand how restorative justice works in practice and how it can be implemented effectively. These books cover a range of topics related to restorative justice, from foundational principles to practical applications. They are valuable resources for gaining a deeper understanding of restorative justice and its potential to transform approaches to conflict, harm, and justice.

Key Term Tuesday: Restorative Justice Why I Chose This Topic: Restorative justice focuses on rehabilitation and reconciliation rather than punishment. It offers a more holistic approach to addressing harm and promoting healing. Why It's Important: Implementing restorative justice practices can help repair relationships, reduce recidivism, and create safer and more supportive communities. Resources for Further Learning: “What Is Restorative Justice?” - Centre for Justice & Reconciliation “Restorative Justice: Resources for Schools” - Edutopia “The Promise of Restorative Justice” - American Bar Association #KeyTermTuesday #RestorativeJustice #RacialEquity #SocialJustice #DEI

BRIDGE Stories to build empathy! Building empathy for one another is crucial for fostering understanding, cooperation, and a more compassionate society. By putting ourselves in someone else's shoes, we gain insight into their experiences, emotions, and perspectives, which can lead to greater tolerance, acceptance, and respect for diversity. Reflection: How we can use empathy, advocacy, and education to increase the use of restorative justice practices, principles, and values? https://lnkd.in/dTeHnzwX

We've commissioned Crest Advisory to carry out some research on operationalising Child First. As part of this research, they want to find out about youth justice practitioners' experiences of Child First. 💜 If you work for a youth justice service, please ask your Head of Service for the survey link to share your views! 💭 #YouthJustice #ChildFirst #Survey #Research

Part 2 of the March KCT session was a deep dive into Kansas City's complex racial, economic, and public safety landscapes. We had enlightening panels on the structural barriers to economic equity, and the nuances of our crime and public safety landscape. Panelists explored what actionable strategies for reparations may look like, and building trust between law enforcement and the community. Let’s dive into the highlights: 📈 𝙀𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚: Gwendolyn Grant’s presentation of The State of Black Kansas City report set the stage for an insightful discussion on economic and racial disparities. The conversation continued with experts Steven Anthony and Stephenie K Smith, MSW, focusing on concrete strategies to bridge economic and racial divides. While envisioning what it would take to achieve equity, a major question arose regarding the role of private and public organizations in reparative justice. 🚓 𝙋𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩: What does it take for someone to feel safe in their community? Melesa Johnson, Esq. lead our final panel, consisting of Police Chief Stacey Graves, Chief Deputy Prosecutor Dion Sankar, and Rev Darren Faulkner, in a discussion about the intertwined issues of public safety and crime. While the question about safety is nuanced and takes more time to consider, the panelists emphasized community policing and trust-based philanthropy are cornerstones for fostering a stronger relationship between law enforcement, community investors and the communities they are pledged to serve. It’s one of the first priorities when promoting feelings of safety in communities that have experienced generations of economic disinvestment layered with discrimination. No trust = No safety! #KCTClass45 #TrustBasedPhilanthropy #ReparativeJustice

So proud of my colleagues on this most worthy mission! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eUS3rJue #bethechange #bethechangeyouwanttosee #bethechangeyouwanttoseeintheworld #makeadifference #makeanimpact #makeadifferencetoday