"The justice process belongs to the community”
- Howard Zehr
Reinforcing the importance of positive relationships is essential to the development of a strong community.
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Positive relationships lay the foundation for cooperation, skill development, and learning.
Restorative Practices in Communities
Restorative Practices can:
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Resolve conflict in communities
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Foster & improve relationships
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Build coalitions & community groups
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Empower people to make positive change in their communities
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Facilitate positive & stable communities
Ways we use RP in communities:
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Community circles
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Circle practice with local groups & organizations
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Youth empowerment groups
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Building restorative relationships between community members
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Using Restorative Practices & circles to resolve conflicts within communities
Restorative circles
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Are a way to bring people together and build relationships
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Are a form of community dialogue
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Facilitate community building
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Are an opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences with one another
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Reduce & remove the barriers between people
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Facilitate collaboration & connection
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Encourage responsibility, respect, & inclusion