Restorative Justice in South King County

Peacemaking Academy was launched in response to the trend of high number of felony firearms charges and other felony gang-related charges appearing before the Juvenile Division of the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The goal of Peacemaking Academy is to divert offenses from the traditional court process, which focuses on punishment and labeling conduct, to a transformative approach that utilizes Peacemaking Circles. This traditional circle ritual and structure is used to bring healing to the community after harm has been caused. Peacemaking Circle is a practice of deep listening and storytelling to promote healing, strengthen relationships, and build healthy community and trust. It helps create a space that lifts barriers between people, opening possibilities for connection, collaboration, and understanding.