It has been said that "Restorative Justice is a term not as well-known as SEL, CRT, and DEI, but it is just as insidious. What started in the prison system has evolved into a deceptively nice-sounding approach to school discipline that, more frequently than not, results in more harm than actual justice for either the offender or the victims."

 

SEL: Social and Emotional Learning

CRT: Critical Race Theory

DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

 

So, what is Restorative Justice? Is it "liberal nonsense" or a vital tool in communities, schools, workplaces & the justice system?

 

Facts from a Constitutional Conservative who has served for years as a Restorative Justice Facilitator...

 

Just like any system or process, it only works if it is done properly. If there is an offender unwilling to effectively participate, traditional punishments should be utilized. Something else important to consider is the voice this process gives to victims. People affected by misbehavior have needs that must be met. Typical needs include: An opportunity to express emotions, assurance that what happened was unfair & undeserved, seeing the offender held accountable, financial restitution, an apology from the offender, having questions answered by the offender, receiving an assurance of safety from the offender, etc.

 

A snippet of the book referenced in today's video can be found at https://www.iirp.edu/images/pdf/Restorative_Practices_Continuum.pdf and https://www.iirp.edu/images/pdf/Social_Dicipline_Window.pdf