(By Manu Lewis)
Have you ever stopped to think about the stories we tell, and who gets to hear them? There is an old saying that “the tale of the Hunt is only told by the Hunter”.
For individuals impacted by the justice system, their narrative is often written for them, dominated by labels like “offender” or “ex-con.” But what if those very individuals held the key to transforming how our communities heal from harm? This is precisely why training justice-impacted individuals to become restorative practitioners isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential.
At the heart of restorative practice is the power of story. It’s about creating safe spaces where everyone involved in an incident of harm can share their truth: what happened, what they were thinking and feeling, who was affected, and what needs to happen to make things right. When justice-impacted individuals step into the role of a restorative practitioner, they bring an unmatched authenticity to this process.
Their lived experience isn’t just a background detail; it’s a profound source of expertise. They understand, often firsthand, the complexities of harm, accountability, systemic barriers, and the deep hOh no…for healing and belonging. They know what it feels like to be labeled, to navigate complicated systems, and to yearn for true repair. This unique perspective allows them to:
- Build Trust Instantly: Participants in a restorative process often feel a deeper level of trust with a facilitator who genuinely understands their journey. This shared understanding can break down barriers that might otherwise remain.
- Empathize Authentically: Having walked a similar path allows for a unique depth of empathy, helping both those who caused harm and those who were harmed feel truly seen and understood.
- Guide with Insight: They can navigate complex emotional landscapes with a wisdom that comes from personal experience, anticipating challenges, and offering guidance rooted in real-world understanding.
- Model Resilience: Their presence alone demonstrates that healing and transformation are possible, offering hope and inspiration to others engaged in restorative processes.
By empowering justice-impacted individuals to lead restorative work, we’re not just giving them a new skill; we’re giving them a platform to reclaim their narratives and use their lived wisdom to guide others towards healing. It’s a powerful act of recognition, valuing their experiences not as a deficit, but as a profound strength. When these voices are centered, the path to true community healing becomes more precise and more impactful for everyone.
It’s time to shift the narrative. It’s time to empower those who know the path best to guide us toward a more restorative future.
