Residents of Bensonhurst and nearby neighborhoods will have a chance to learn about restorative justice and how it works under a new fall program.
Council Member Susan Zhuang is bringing a fresh approach to public safety in Council District 43 by introducing restorative justice practices in partnership with the Center for Justice Innovation.
Restorative justice focuses on preventing future harm by building relationships, giving survivors a voice and holding those responsible accountable in a constructive, community-centered way. The first information session took place Sept. 15 at the Chinese American Social Services Center, giving residents a chance to learn about restorative justice and how it works.
“Once I learned about restorative justice, I knew I wanted to bring it into our community,” Zhuang said in a statement. “Too often, families don’t know that approaches like this exist. By launching this pilot program, we’re making sure more people understand restorative justice and have the chance to take part in a process that promotes safety, and respect.”
Outreach in recent weeks connected with local organizations that already work closely with residents, providing them with tools and resources to support families and neighbors.
The program also seeks to reduce isolation and strengthen connections across District 43, which covers Bensonhurst, Dykers Heights, Sunset Park and other southern Brooklyn neighborhoods. A two-day workshop is scheduled for Oct. 27–28 at the Western Buddhist Association, offering residents a deeper dive into restorative justice practices.
