Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

                                                 NEWS RELEASE                                                                              

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               November 9, 2001                  

Restorative Justice Week 2001: “Giving Hope a Voice”

(Columbus)- Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (DRC) Director, Reginald A. Wilkinson, will officially launch DRC’s Restorative Justice Week at a symposium at the Corrections Training Academy on Tuesday, November 13, 2001.

The theme of Restorative Justice Week 2001 and the symposium is “Giving Hope a Voice.”  The symposium will feature speakers and workshops that will focus on the beneficial nature of Restorative Justice and its ability to repair the harm caused by crime.  DRC practices such as victim offender dialogue, victim awareness classes for offenders, citizen circles and community justice centers will be emphasized during the event.

The philosophy of Restorative Justice is one that many justice agencies have adopted and are applying to the justice process.  The characteristics of the philosophy, once put into action, encourage victim input, offender accountability and community partnerships that are essential in the reparation of crime.  “This is a time for all of us as justice professionals to embrace the concept of Restorative Justice and understand its usefulness in the justice procedure,” explained Wilkinson.

In addition to the symposium, DRC institutions and Adult Parole Authority offices across the state will participate in various activities.  These activities include information sessions, victim impact panels, open houses and fundraisers to benefit local victims’ groups and other community organizations.

For further information, please contact the DRC Public Information Office at (614) 752-1150.