Transformative Justice at CHOOSE 180
At CHOOSE 180 we believe in the power of Transformative Justice!
Transformative Justice (TJ): Transformative justice recognizes that material conditions of oppression are routinely at the root of all forms of harm. TJ aims to address and confront the root causes of harm on all levels and is an integral part of true accountability and healing for communities.
What does Transformative Justice look like? Mutual Aid, Community Resource Center, Addressing Poverty (health, food and housing insecurity), Advocacy.
We asked our team what Transformative Justice means to them. Here are their responses:
“Transformative Justice is a way to get to the root of systemic issues and fixing the system from its core”
"Shifting how justice is viewed and practiced"
"Transform systems of oppression and practice justice that centers healing and community empowerment"
"Liberated, lasting, accountable change"
"Not focusing on punishment, but on a holistic approach that considers the wellbeing and context of community for both harmed party and the one who harmed"
“Justice being served by way of transformation instead of punitively”
“Means that there is a possibility for a new way to see accountability”
“Transforming systems to minimize harm by centering healing and those who have been impacted by harm”
“Solutions that include the context/systems/environment - Address the root causes of harms. Respond to harms without incurring more harm. - Do not rely on the state”
“Change, redemption, reparations”
“Transformative justice means to transform systems of oppression, and practice justice that centers healing and community empowerment”
“Changing how justice is viewed not by punishment but rehabilitate and give space for growth”
At CHOOSE 180 we have several programs that are informed by the ideals of Transformative Justice.
Our Court Diversion program is a great example of this. This program begins with CHOOSE 180 receiving a referral from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office or the King County CDP. CHOOSE 180 staff works through our Compass curriculum with the participant. After the workshop, the charge is dropped or dismissed and young people are connected to other positive, supportive resources and programs (internally through CHOOSE 180 or externally through a community partner). Instead of traditional punishment that could impact the rest of their lives and often create a ripple effect through their family and community, young people have the opportunity to embrace accountability, healing, and the tools to transform their own future.
Another program that uses Transformative Justice is our Youth and Young Adult (YYA) Advocacy Program. Our YYA Advocacy Program is an opportunity for young people who have been most impacted by the criminal legal system to engage in paid advocacy training and opportunities. This program is a space for young people to build connections and advocate for systemic change that impacts the community at all levels.
Our mission is to transform unjust systems and empower young people by offering them resources, tools, and assistance to amplify their voices and drive transformative action within their communities.
Do you believe in the power of Transformative Justice? If so, we encourage you to support us on our mission to transform systems of injustice.
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