Restorative Justice Program (RJ)

Restorative Justice (RJ) is an alternative method of justice from the CJS where healing, understanding, accountability and restoring harmony are the key features. We work directly with the Crown and Police to support this initiative through Diversion partnerships, as well as through self and community referrals.

RJ is done by bringing the person who caused harm (offender), the person harmed (victim) and the community together to talk about what occurred (the crime), the impact of these actions had on all involved and what needs to happen to make things right (diversion, an agreement post incarceration, reparations etc). This allows the person who caused harm to take responsibility for their actions; the person who was harmed to have their voice heard and to understand; and provides the community with a better understanding of why things happened and how they can help with healing and restoring harmony; and to ensure satisfaction of any legal requirements.

The RJ program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Attorney General (MAG). The Restorative Justice Liaison (RJL) connects Inuit, the courts, and the community to the Restorative Justice program and supports the case worker. The Restorative Justice Caseworker (RJC) supports RJL and works directly with Inuit to support implementing the agreement (Healing Plan) made working with the service user, as well as, connecting Inuit to appropriate programs and supports for their individual needs.

The program’s goal is to support culturally appropriate forms of justice and healing for Inuit. The program uses Inuit customs and practices following the 8 guiding principles, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in all support. This allows Inuit to tell their side of the story, admit when they did something wrong, and understand how it hurt others.