Promote and support the availability and use of restorative justice programs.

The main focus on this Call for Change was initially on restorative justice within the justice system, specifically to support the availability of restorative justice programs and alternative sanctions in court proceedings. The highlights below include both those initiatives that relate directly to the justice system and those that operate outside of the justice system.

Indigenous Justice Action Circle: Initial focus on Gladue reports leads to associated priority of alternative sanctions

The Indigenous Justice Action Circle has discussed this Call for Change in relation to Call for Change 38. The availability of restorative justice and alternative sanctions programs can support legal representatives and judges in making informed decisions in court proceedings that involve an Indigenous offender. While a Gladue report can inform the judge of an Indigenous offender’s specific circumstances, that information alone is unhelpful in reducing Indigenous over-incarceration unless restorative justice programs and alternative sanctions are available.

NL Human Rights Commission: Supports conflict resolution and connection for conflicts outside the justice system

Community Justice Connect is a program run by the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission. This program provides conflict resolution services to Indigenous, racialized and religious minorities as well as organizations that are involved in conflict with persons or organizations from one of these designated groups and who are committed to maintaining respectful relations. Facilitators help Indigenous people in the program to connect with communities that are most important to the individual.

Relationships First: Encouraging relationality and interconnectedness

Relationships First NL is an organization which encourages relationality through professional learning, resource development, community engagement, and circle facilitation. They acknowledge the Indigenous roots of restorative justice and strive to embody a two-eared listening and a two-eyed seeing approach to their work.

For the Department of Justice and Public Safety (JPS):

• Allocate multiyear funding in the upcoming budget cycle to (a) sustain already-existing restorative justice programs in Indigenous communities across the province; and (b) support the development of similar Indigenous-led programs in urban areas, including St. John’s.