Critical to our restorative justice community’s work on equity was understanding the current culture, practices, behaviors, and actions within our organizations and our relationships with statewide partners.  Examining these factors with an outside consultant allowed for critical and candid feedback on our efforts to address inequities and to promote inclusion.  To do this work, the VT RJ EDJIE Initiative worked with  The Creative Discourse Group, LLC (TCDG), a collaborative team of associates with diverse identities, life experiences, and expertise.  

In June 2023, TCDG began working with Vermont’s 21 restorative justice programs to identify opportunities to reduce biases and inequities. An Equity Assessment Team was formed to guide and support this work, which included EDJIE Initiative leaders, program directors, and a community volunteer.  TCDG engaged project partners, collaborators, and community members in an assessment process, utilizing a combination of surveys, listening sessions, interviews, and a document review.  In addition, they presented two workshops to organizational leaders related to inclusive and equitable workplaces.

Included on this page are the assessments and reports generated through this work.  When using all or part of these materials, please credit the VT EDJIE Initiative, The Creative Discourse Group, and the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant No. 15PBJA-22-GG-01205-BRND.