On July 1, 2024 the Trauma & Resilience Initiative, in partnership with ReImagine IL, held a restorative justice gathering at the Douglass Branch Library. Community organizations such as ReDeploy, DREAAM, the University of Illinois School of Social Work, Champaign County Probation, and the Equity & Engagement department were in attendance. A round table discussion was held over lunch to identify how residents and organizational staff can work together to achieve restorative justice in Champaign and the surrounding areas.
Of the many ways discussed, committing to changing current practices, increasing spaces to get to know one another better, broadening knowledge and perspectives, pooling resources, and building bridges to foster trust were among the most suggested ideas. This gathering gave organizational staff and residents the opportunity to listen and collaborate with one another to better our community.