What is restorative justice?
Justice that heals, instead of only punishing
Restorative justice focuses on repairing the harm caused by crime and conflict. It brings together the people affected so they can talk about what happened, how it affected them, and what needs to happen to make it right.
Where it comes from
An old way of solving problems
Restorative justice is based on Indigenous traditional teachings that the community as a whole is affected by the harmful behaviour of its members.
The community isn’t only harmed by that behaviour; the behaviour itself is a sign that the community is out of balance. Everyone concerned has to work together to repair the harm and restore harmony.
When justice is handled this inclusively, matters are dealt with quickly, in a way that supports closure and the beginning of healing.
“As an aboriginal person I have been afraid of the legal system and what I believed happens. I found the FACE Program has opened my eyes, my heart and my spirit to an old way of solving problems and taught me to trust in my beliefs to make a difference in our community.”
A different set of questions
Court vs. a restorative circle
| Court asks | A circle asks |
|---|---|
| What law was broken? | Who was hurt, and how? |
| Who did it, and what do they deserve? | What do the people affected need? |
| The state and the accused, with lawyers speaking for them | Everyone affected, speaking for themselves |
| Can take many months | Usually within weeks of the incident |
| Ends with a sentence | Ends with an agreement everyone helped build |
What it offers
Something for everyone in the circle
For the person responsible
A real opportunity for self-accountability: to face the people affected, understand the impact, and make amends.
For the person harmed
A voice in what happens. Understanding of why it happened, a chance to have their needs met, and sometimes even forgiveness.
For families & community
The authority of the family and community to take responsibility for themselves is affirmed, and relationships can heal.
The wisdom of the circle
Conflict points out the problem, and it also holds the cure: our chance to really listen to each other, and to relate to each other again as human beings.
Not sure where to start?
Call or write to us. We’ll listen, explain how a circle could help, and help you invite the other people involved.