Bringing justice through dialogue

What to look for on Smart Talk Wednesday, July 12, 2017:

What is restorative justice?  One definition is “a system of criminal justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large.”  Dialogue and conversation are at the heart of restorative justice.  Restorative justice is not punitive but rather designed to make the person who committed a crime realize the wrong they’ve done and work with the victim and the community to repair the harm.

Last May, WITF and Smart Talk produced a series of programs that provided a deeper look into Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system.  What we learned is that those under the age of 18 who break the law are dealt with differently than adults in criminal court.  Juveniles are given the opportunity to make changes in their lives to help them become law-abiding productive citizens.  

There’s a program in Lancaster County whose mission is to “transform conflict and build community through face-to-face dialogue.  It’s known as ADVOZ Mediation and Restorative Justice Practices.

At a time when most conflict seems to result in loud disagreement or confrontation, ADVOZ seeks to resolve differences with civil conversation and mediation.

ADVOZ is featured on Wednesday’s Smart Talk.  Joining us are Chris Fitz, Executive Director, Community Engagement, ADVOZ and Lancaster County Juvenile Probation Officer Rufus Tolbert.