Description

Join NACRJ for an Online Circle: Exploring Best Practices In Restorative Justice

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 
Time: 11:00p-1:00p PT / 12:00p-2:00p MT / 1:00p-3:00p CT / 2:00p-4:00p ET

Join us for a Circle conversation exploring best practices in restorative justice. Drawing from NACRJ's Best Practices Guidelines Toolkit, this session invites practitioners, educators, and community members to reflect on what "best practices" mean to them and how we can support one another in developing and nurturing effective practice. 

Free | Open to All

Additional Information:

• In order for us to ensure the appropriate number of Circle Keepers for the number of registered participants, we kindly request that you sign up only if you can commit to attending. This will help us avoid having more Circle Keepers than necessary.  
• If possible, it's helpful for attendees to be on video in a quiet space during the circle. We know that’s not always possible, and we first and foremost welcome people in whichever way they are able to show up. Having your video on isn't mandatory, but it’s helpful when in circle as we practice listening, holding space, and being present for one another.
• Upon registering you will receive an email with a calendar invite and Zoom link. Please add the event to your calendar.

About Circle Process:

Circle processes have their roots in Indigenous cultures around the globe, stretching back to ancient times. Circle values and practices are now known by many names, such as: community-building circles, peacemaking circles, talking circles, or simply "circles."  In-person Circles usually include the following elements:

• People are seated in an open circle, with no obstructions between them.
• The group comes up with guidelines or agreements at the beginning of the discussion. 
• Conversation moves around the circle so that each person in turn has an opportunity to speak if they want. Often, a "talking piece" is passed around the circle. The person with the talking piece is invited to speak if they wish; all others listen.
• There is some kind of opening and closing ceremony, observance or activity.

Online Circles are a virtual adaptation of the circle process. While they differ from an in-person Circle, many of the elements are incorporated into the virtual space.

Community Guidelines: 

• Confidentiality: “What is shared here, stays here”.
• Respect the "talking piece" (speaking order).
• Participation is always voluntary: prompts are invitations, not directives. Participants may pass.
• Respect each participant and listen actively.
• Vulnerability is welcomed; speak and listen from the heart.