Description

Hosted by the National Association of Community and Restorative Justice 

Join NACRJ as we come together in celebration of International Restorative Justice Week.

While we always value the power of sitting in Circle in person, virtual Circles make it possible for people everywhere to gather in shared reflection and connection. In a time when so much in our world feels divided, the simple act of being together, listening deeply, and speaking from the heart remains a powerful form of community building and healing.

This year’s gathering will center on the theme of joy, the kind that lives within us, between us, and in the moments of connection that remind us we belong. Circle questions will invite reflection on where we find joy, how we share it, and how it sustains us even as we navigate challenging and complex times together.  

The event will kick off with welcoming remarks to initiative a deeper level of reflection. To honor the spirit of authentic connection, participants will be placed into small Circles of 6–8 people, each guided by a Circle Keeper.

Let’s gather in community, across distance, to listen, share, and celebrate the power of joy and human connection.

 Event Details

• These are not presentations or webinars. They are Circle spaces where everyone has the chance to speak, listen, and connect.  
• There is no cost to attend. If you choose, you may make a donation at registration to help support our Circle Keepers.  
• In order for us to ensure the appropriate number of Circle Keepers for the registered participants, we kindly request that you sign up only if you can commit to attending. This helps avoid an excess of Circle Keepers than what is needed for the event. 
• If possible, it's helpful for attendees to be on video in a quiet space during the circle. We know that’s not always possible, and we first and foremost welcome people in whichever way they are able to show up. Having your video on isn't mandatory, but it’s helpful when in circle as we practice listening, holding space, and being present for one another.
• Upon registering you will receive an email with a calendar invite and Zoom link. Please add the event to your calendar.  

About Circle Process 

Circle processes have their roots in Indigenous cultures around the globe, stretching back to ancient times. Circle values and practices are now known by many names, such as: community-building circles, peacemaking circles, talking circles, or simply "circles."  In-person Circles usually include the following elements:

• People are seated in an open circle, with no obstructions between them.
• The group comes up with guidelines or agreements at the beginning of the discussion. 
• Conversation moves around the circle so that each person in turn has an opportunity to speak if they want. Often, a "talking piece" is passed around the circle. The person with the talking piece is invited to speak if they wish; all others listen.
• There is some kind of opening and closing ceremony, observance or activity.

Online Circles are a virtual adaptation of the circle process. While they differ from an in-person Circle, many of the elements are incorporated into the virtual space.

Community Guidelines: 

• Confidentiality: “What is shared here, stays here” (Circle will not be recorded).
• Respect the "talking piece" (speaking order).
• Participation is always voluntary: prompts are invitations, not directives. Participants may pass.
• Respect each participant and listen actively.
• Vulnerability is welcomed; speak and listen from the heart.