Besides the details provided in the catalogue portion of this document, several key insights were observed:

 

Definitions of restorative justice varied: Distinct aspects of restorative justice arose as a result of personal experiences, organizational missions, and community contexts. However, the definitions converged on restorative justice encapsulating a spectrum of alternatives for healing and conflict resolution by prioritizing relational dynamics that would foster community cohesion. Five of the participants touched upon the Indigenous roots of restorative justice. One participant noted: “Restorative justice is a collaborative approach to restoring strained relationships or harm done to a person, group or community. It is based on Indigenous principles of respect, empathy and consensus building and aims to maintain dignity, restore harmony, and repair relationships. ” Another described restorative justice as an alternative to punishment and an opportunity for reconciliation by giving equal opportunities and honoring those involved.

 

Demographics: The people served by the organizations were influenced by geographic parameters (i.e. Labrador, the Avalon, Central) and/or their respective missions. Seven of the 18 participants indicated a primary focus on engaging with youth aged 12 to 29 to ensure the well-being of youth and to impact future generations; the remaining participants encompassed a broader scope of all age groups. Additionally, most organizations conveyed an intention to reach underrepresented people (e.g., Indigenous communities, newcomers, former offenders) within the purview of their mission, while demonstrating flexibility to assist with a wider spectrum of individuals within the province.

 

Circle practices: The prevailing practice in offering restorative justice services is the utilization of circle dialogue. Various types of circles—such as healing circles, accountability circles, sentencing circles, sharing circles, and support circles—are being employed based on the objectives of the organizations and individuals involved. Eight of 15 participants explained that they use circles to create a safe environment for open dialogue, to come together and learn from each other’s perspectives, and to address harm and resolve conflicts. Organizations not offering circle practices offer services or programs that include working relationally with and in communities to address injustice in society, family support, educational initiatives, legal support, therapy for mental health, and justice awareness programs.

 

Language Translation: Five respondents acknowledged offering translation services as needed. Of these, four outsourced translation tasks to proficient linguists or native speakers when circumstances necessitated. Nonetheless, unanimity prevailed among all participants that having translators to facilitate more effective assistance for individuals such as Indigenous people and newcomers, was needed. Resource constraints, both financial and human (notably the scarcity of translators proficient in certain languages), precluded the comprehensive provision of these services.

 

Relationships First: In the current context of Newfoundland and Labrador's pursuit of restorative justice principles and practices, Relationships First NL (RFNL) was identified as an organization that encouraged a comprehensive intra-provincial, cross-cultural view that includes education, community engagement, and judicial perspectives. The collaborative work of RFNL with FL and CJC to create this consolidated repository of restorative justice initiatives in the province is welcomed as a way to encourage and leverage our collective strengths.