In the society, community and family of Restorative Justice, 3rd National Conference 2011
Jul 08, 2011
from Kris Miner's entry on Restorative Justice and Circles:
I have attended 3 of the 3 National Restorative Justice Conferences. I am typing this blog from the lobby of the Sheraton Hotel in Raleigh, host of the most recent meeting. I stayed tonight, the conference ended at noon. Instead of being surrounded by familiar faces, and at the very least, people in orange lanyards, I am here alone. I am feeling lost in a mystery of something much bigger than myself. This is a feeling that only being alone, without lonliness can provide.
My adventure began by picking up Kay Pranis, and traveling out of Minneapolis together. I love Kay, she really embodies the spirt and essence of a restorative justice circle practitioner. We were joined at the gate by Mark Umbriet, and I sat speechless, as the conversation included comparisions of criminal justice reforms, via restorative justice and health care, plant care, food systems and health. I was practically tongue tied as my thoughts drifted from the conversation to the the experience of sitting with these two pioneeers of this movement. They so very humbly, chatted with me about these issues.
Breakfast day 1, Mark Yantzi. Hmmm, voice clear. You know the history of Restorative Justice includes the first form of a conference in 1974 of which Mark was the Probation Agent. He was unassuming, polite, kind and I referenced my connections with the client he took from home to home, Russ Kelly.
....I hope for those of you that attended, my experience is a reminder and validation for all that you experienced. For those of you unable to attend, I hope this blog post shares how close our family of restorative justice really is. We are all part of a healing wave. We are taking root, we are growing and nurturing a way for our futures and our children’s futures.
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