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Celebrating

Happy 4th of July 2020

While the nation celebrates its independence from British colonial rule, it is important to remember that the meaning of this day is very different for people of color - particularly decendents of slaves.  Actor Daveed Diggs captures this difference in a dramatic reading of Frederick Douglass' words from a speech given one hundred years ago.  Scenes of racial injustice today provide a powerful backdrop.  This presentation asks simply -- When will America Live Up to Its Ideals for ALL people?   

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Personal Reflections

NACRJ President Sheryl Wilson shares a personal video message on NACRJ's Facebook page, refecting on the losses and many responses related to the tragic killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Wilson invites us to take a moment to become aware of our own breathing as a way to value life, specifically to value the life of Floyd whose breath was taken away.

Wilson's video message also captures the powerful connections made through NACRJ's recent virtual community circle (on Saturday June 6) that held space for people nationwide to process hard emotions and prepare for new ways to re-engage society. Twenty facilitators assisted with breakout groups, allowing for every participant (150) to share and listen from the heart.

NACRJ Executive Director Michael Gilbert also provides a personal statement of response, highlighting how Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded our nation decades ago that "a riot is the language of the unheard." Gilbert's piece, "Can You Hear Me Now?" invites everyone to think more deeply about what we are hearing these days. 

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Notable Read

Want a Confederate Monument?  My Body is a Confederate Monument

On June 26, 2020 the New York Times published Caroline R. Williams' powerful opinion editorial.  It is an extraordinary critique of the revisionist history of racism, slavery, the Civil War and the veneration of "Hero's of the Southern Struggle".  This is a must read essay for all U. S. citizens and residents.  Use this LINK to access the editorial on the New York Times. 

To download a PDF version of the essay use the hypertext link.

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Legislative News

The NACRJ Law and Policy Working Group is recruiting a team of legislators and advocates to participate in a national conference call to discuss strategic issues and moving forward with legislative advisement and advocacy. Contact Dr. Sandra Pavelka at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in participating in this important dialogue.

NACRJ is also showcasing good examples of Restorative Justice Legislation in three key areas: Juvenile Justice, Adult/Criminal Justice, and Educational Settings/Schools.^[i]

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Announcements

This spring the Vermont Law School (VLS) was awarded a $3-million federal grant to create and host the National Center on Restorative Justice.

VLS will be coordinating new efforts for RJ educational opportunities and research initiatives that will help shape and move forward restorative practices in both criminal justice systems and educational institutions throughout the United States. Senator Patrick Leahy, long-time champion of justice reform, was instrumental in helping to secure the funding.

The National Center on Restorative Justice will be comprised of a partnership between three academic institutions. Vermont Law School is the only law school in the nation to offer a master’s degree in RJ as a stand-alone degree or in conjunction with a law degree. University of Vermont brings research expertise and an established program of educating incarcerated individuals. University of San Diego provides geographical diversity and extensive experience in delivering national RJ trainings and curriculum design.

Read more from the Vermont Law School.