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WHAT IS RESTORATIVE JUSTICE?

The process of restorative justice (RJ) brings youthful offenders face to face with their victims and empowers both parties to heal the harm. Offenders and those who have been harmed along with their supporters voluntarily sit in a dialog circle referred to as a "conference." Through open-ended questions posed by a facilitator they tell the story of what happened, why it happened, and what impact the incident has had on all those affected. Participants then come to an agreement as to how the harm will be repaired to the greatest extent possible.

In the conventional discipline system victims are left out. The school, state or other authority steps in as the pseudo victim. Most remain scared and confused about why they were singled out. Restorative justice by contrast places those who have been harmed in their primary place of importance where they can be heard inside a safe, respectful environment and get their questions answered.

In the conventional system youthful offenders take a passive role as the court decides their sentence or fate. Many are encouraged to plea bargain for an offense they didn't commit to ensure a guilty plea. Some then feel victimized by the system and grow in bitterness rather than remorse. By contrast the restorative justice system gives them a chance to take an active role in repairing the harm to a real human being. It expands their previously limited understanding of the impact that their negative behaviors can have on others. With remorse comes empathy and the opportunity to return to their communities with honor. When youth feel connected to their community, they are far less likely to re-offend.

WHAT DOES RESTORATIVE JUSTICE DO?

• Reduces truancy and discipline problems in schools to enhance the learning environment.

• Reduces recidivism (re-offending rates) for prisons, thereby reducing the high cost of incarceration for taxpayers.

• Reduces juvenile crime and violence making communities safer.

• Gives victims a voice in how the harm will be repaired.

• Gives first-time youthful offenders an opportunity to wipe the slate clean and start over having learned powerful lessons from their mistakes.

• Provides a smooth re-entry process after suspension or expulsion.

• Increases graduation rates and improves academic focus and achievement.

• Allows family and friends to support both offenders and those who have been harmed through what can be an emotionally challenging time.

• Builds critical communication and conflict resolution skills.

• Creates a paradigm of inclusiveness where youth can become leaders in the effort to promote the safety and welfare of the school and community.

• Re-connects people with their communities.

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Contact us:
Youth Transformation Center
P.O. Box 38074, Colorado Springs, CO 80937