How can you use restorative justice principles in urban planning?

1 What is restorative justice in urban planning?

Restorative justice in urban planning is an approach that recognizes the historical and ongoing injustices that have shaped the built environment and the social relations within it. It acknowledges the impacts of colonization, displacement, segregation, gentrification, and environmental degradation on marginalized groups and communities. It also seeks to address these issues by engaging all the stakeholders in a participatory process that respects their needs, values, and perspectives, and aims to restore their dignity, rights, and opportunities.

2 Why is restorative justice in urban planning important?

Restorative justice in urban planning is important because it can help to heal the wounds of the past and present, and prevent further harm in the future. It can foster a sense of belonging, trust, and cooperation among diverse groups and individuals, and promote a culture of empathy, accountability, and mutual support. It can also enhance the quality of life, well-being, and resilience of the communities, and contribute to social justice, environmental justice, and human rights.

3 How can you use restorative justice principles in urban planning?

Restorative justice principles can be applied to urban planning in a variety of ways, depending on the context, goals, and challenges of the project. To begin, it’s important to identify sources and effects of harm or injustice in the area of intervention, as well as who the affected parties are and their interests. All relevant stakeholders should be invited to participate in a respectful and meaningful dialogue, where their stories, experiences, and aspirations are heard. A collaborative and creative process should be facilitated to explore the root causes of the issues, generate and evaluate potential solutions, and agree on a plan of action that meets the needs and expectations of all involved. The plan should then be implemented and monitored with feedback and support provided to stakeholders. Celebrating and acknowledging achievements, as well as recognizing and repairing any remaining or new issues that may arise, should also occur.

5 How can you learn more about restorative justice in urban planning?

If you are interested in learning more about restorative justice in urban planning, there are many resources and opportunities available. You can read books, articles, reports, and blogs such as "Restorative Cities: Repairing Harm and Transforming Communities" by Jennifer Ball or "Cities of Peace: Urban Planning for Restorative Justice" by Karen Parhar. Additionally, you can watch videos, podcasts, webinars, and documentaries that feature stories and examples of restorative justice in urban planning, such as "Restorative City: Building Community Through Dialogue" by the Centre for Dialogue at Simon Fraser University. Moreover, there are online or offline communities, networks, and events that connect and support practitioners and researchers of restorative justice in urban planning like the Restorative Justice Network of Catholic Campuses or the International Institute for Restorative Practices.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?