GCC Finalizes Partnership With DA Deborah Gonzalez' Office

December 6, 2022

It’s official!  GCC is moving forward with our formal partnership with District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez’ office to offer a restorative justice diversion pathway for certain high level misdemeanor and felony juvenile cases.  According to the press release related to the Memorandum of Understanding that DA Gonzalez and GCC Executive Director, Danny Malec, signed on November 16:

“This program highlights the viewpoint of the DA’s office that restorative justice and diversion programming are essential components of an effective justice system. Restorative justice is the evidence-backed philosophy that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large, in which the offender takes accountability for their actions in an effort to repair harm and prevent it from happening again. This method has shown high satisfaction rates for offenders, victims, and the overall communities in which restorative justice is practiced.”

As we begin to receive and facilitate restorative justice diversion cases, we will look forward to sharing more information.  In the meantime, feel free to take a look at some of the recent press that we have received about this restorative justice diversion program:

Athens Banner Herald

11-Alive News Atlanta

DA Gonzalez’ Interview with WGAU’s Alexia Ridley

other blogs and recommended reading

Opinion

Where Is the Forgiveness and Grace in Cancel Culture?

A link to an editorial written on 12/28/21 in the New York Times from Michael Eric Dyson, reflecting on Bishop Tutu's approach to apartheid and the limited value of punishment or banishment.

Read full article (LINK OPENS IN A NEW TAB) →

Suffolk District Attorney to Pilot Restorative Justice Program

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden is piloting a restorative justice program in Chelsea District Court and the Charlestown and Roxbury divisions of Municipal Court.

Read full article (LINK OPENS IN A NEW TAB) →

Solidarity as Social and Emotional Safety

This model of social and emotional learning emphasizes mutual aid, restorative justice and safety by design.

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At This Oakland High School, Restorative Justice Goes Far Beyond Discipline

Fremont High students are even helping young students engage in restorative justice practices.

Read full article (LINK OPENS IN A NEW TAB) →