Different types of restorative justice circles and a practitioner perspective
Nov 25, 2011
from the entry by Kris Miner on Restorative Justice and Circles:
Just as there are 12 major markings on the face of a clock, I could list 12 different kinds of Circles. In four basic categories those Circles would be community building – peace building – repair building – and celebration. This also creates a full circle!
A very brief explanation on these four categories, followed by a practitioner perspective. All these Circles use the 4 stages and phases I have written about on this blog. You use good Circlekeeping skills and techniques for each of these.
Community Building – Boyes-Watson, authored an article titled “Community is not a place but a relationship: lessons for organizational development”. She explains community not being defined by a place but the perception of personal connectedness. Boyes-Watson – also authored Peacemaking Circles for Urban Youth. Community Building Circles connect us to our community.
The practitioner perspective (PP): create a sense of connection, by using all 4 stages and introduce a deeper discussion on values to address issues. You may even ask for stories about a time people felt connected, or what connection might look like.
Peace Building – Where might conflict rise? Is a situation at risk to become a larger issues? We know the #1 cause of death for people 16-24 is car crashes, so when teen drivers come in, we teach this. Peace Building can be done when you sense an “at-risk” situation. For schools – this would be Tier II of PBIS.
PP: Remember, no such thing as a victimless crime. SCVRJP addresses things like underage consumption and controlled substance use – and we engage individuals from our community ad Circle members, keepers and storytellers. When there is not a clear and present Victim, others take that voice, but also use what I have called Restorative Grace (extending kindess to the least deserving).
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