Dear Friends,

We are pleased to introduce the theme for Restorative Justice Week 2006 - "Creative Partnerships & Collaborative Action." This theme celebrates the expression of the creativity found within existing partnerships and challenges us to forge new and stronger ones. These new alliances provide an opportunity to introduce restorative justice principles, values, and initiatives to broader cross sections of Canadians.

Restorative justice endeavours to build a healthier and safer society through the restoration of communities. It addresses the real needs of those impacted by harmful behaviour and empowers community groups. Ultimately, it encourages a commitment to the humanization of justice that allows victims to continue the healing process and offenders to take ownership for the consequences of their actions. Finally, restorative justice demands that the root causes of harmful behaviour be addressed, including the inequities grounded in racism, poverty, child abuse, and substandard living environments.

All of these goals can only truly be realized through community-based and publicly-funded agencies creatively working together. If restorative justice is to grow, creative partnerships will make that possible. These partnerships will challenge us to move beyond consultation and cooperation and towards collaborative action. While some are trying to address the causes before the cycle of violence starts, others are attempting to respond restoratively after the harm has occurred. By working in isolation, these two groups limit their ability to effect lasting change. Together they make a more compelling argument.

The integration of restorative processes will make a positive difference in the quality of life for all Canadians. Let us broaden our voice through new creative partnerships with those with whom we share common interests. Working together through collaborative actions, great achievements are within our reach.

For further information, please contact John Green, Restorative Justice & Dispute Resolution Unit @ (613) 947 -6435 or by e-mail: GreenJJ@csc-scc.gc.ca or Michelle Landry, Chaplaincy @ (613) 995-8366 or by email: LandryMI@csc-scc.gc.ca.

Terry Richardson
Director General
Chaplaincy & Restorative Justice