At NACRJ’s 10th National Conference of Community & Restorative Justice in New Orleans, Sister Helen Prejean challenged us with a question that goes beyond the criminal justice system: How does waking up happen?

She spoke about her own awakening to injustice, recognizing that becoming aware of suffering is only the beginning. The real transformation happens when awareness moves us to action.

Sister Helen reflected on the words of Dorothy Day and the importance of “building the new within the structure of the old.” Her message reminded us that creating a more just world requires us to challenge harmful systems while actively building alternatives rooted in dignity, compassion, and humanity.

Why was her message so important to our restorative justice community?

Because restorative justice begins with the courage to see what others may choose to ignore. It asks us to acknowledge harm, confront historical injustice, recognize our shared humanity, and take responsibility for building something different.

Sister Helen reminded us that waking up to justice is not a single moment. It is an ongoing commitment to learning, listening, and acting.

As we continue the conversations from our 10th National Conference, we leave you with the same question:

How does waking up happen, and what will you do once your eyes are open?

The Future Is Restorative. And the work of building that future begins with us.

Click here to watch Sister Helen Prejean's keynote speech.

Lucinda Cross
Conference & Events Director
NACRJ