Description
Restorative Practices (RP) is a social science that studies how to strengthen relationships between individuals and social connections within communities. Derived from indigenous cultures, RP promotes peacemaking and reconciliation, provides equity and safety, and builds trust amongst participants.
This workshop will provide an overview of RP, and give participants the opportunity to experience a Restorative Practice Circle. Dina Thompson and Marie Moy will share their wholistic approach to engage schools, organizations, the criminal justice system, and neighborhoods, which addresses racial equity and justice, and reimagines traditional means of discipline that places accountability and support in the hands of the community.
Marie Moy is the Director of Operations with Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition (ECRJC), and a member of the restorative practices training team. She is a graduate of Northeastern Seminary with a MA in Theology and Social Justice, and Indiana University, Bloomington with a BS in Biochemistry. As a second generation Asian American, Marie is passionate about immigration reform in addition to her work with ECRJC to end mass incarceration, and restore relationships and communities. Marie lives in Buffalo, NY with her spouse, Troy Wood, and their two children, and she is a member CCDA Leadership Cohort 8.
Dina Thompson is the Executive Director and founding member of Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition, and adjunct professor of Restorative Practice (RP) at University at Buffalo. She graduated from Hilbert College, and holds a Master Certificate and licenses in RP from the International Institute of Restorative Practices. As a practitioner, Dina collaborates with community-based organizations to implement RP in schools and institutions, facilitates restorative conferencing with Family Court, and coordinates Buffalo’s Restorative Justice Day. Dina is a wife and mother of three. She believes being in good relationships is how we begin and continue to bring unity in the community.
