Opinion: How New Restorative Justice Program Can Bring Safety & Support to Survivors During the Holidays

In a recent Witness LA article, Teiahsha Bankhead, a LeaderSpring Center alum from the Class of 2021 Women of Color LeadStrong Fellowship, shares her powerful insights on restorative justice programs that provide crucial support for survivors of trauma. Bankhead emphasizes the transformative role these programs play in creating safety and healing, particularly during the holiday season. She explains, “The goal of a Conflict Circle is to arrive at a mutually beneficial outcome that addresses the harm the victim has suffered (and) explores what unmet needs might the perpetrator have that contributed to them causing harm,” adding, “There is support for both of these parties.” Her perspective underscores the importance of community-driven solutions that offer accountability and healing, helping to create a more just and restorative approach to conflict resolution.

Learn more about Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth.