Description

Hosted by National Association of Community and Restorative Justice 

The National Day of Racial Healing invites us to reflect on our shared values and imagine what healing from the effects of racism can look like when we work together. Launched by W.K. Kellogg Foundation in 2017, the day offers an opportunity to bring together people of all backgrounds to inspire collective action and build common ground for a more just and equitable world. 

In honor of this day, NACRJ will host a circle gathering on January 20, 2026. The gathering will feature opening comments by members of NACRJ’s DEIJ Committee, as well as Jodie Geddes, NACRJ Board Member and co-author of The Little Book of Racial Healing. As with our other online circles, the majority of our time together will be spent in small group circles focused on connection among attendees. All those in attendance will be entered into a drawing to win one of five copies of Jodie’s book as a door prize.

Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Time: 3:30–5:30 PM Pacific / 4:30–6:30 PM Mountain / 5:30–7:30 PM Central / 6:30–8:30 PM Eastern

A few additional notes:

• There is no cost to attend but you'll be given an option to make a donation upon registering. Donations support our Circle Keepers and sustain future offerings.
• 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.