Restorative Justice Workshop Explores Alternative Approaches in Philadelphia

Community members gather for two-day event to discuss healing, accountability and public safety

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A restorative justice organization in West Philadelphia recently hosted a two-day workshop to explore alternative approaches to the criminal justice system. The event, facilitated by Let's Circle Up, brought together community members to examine different perspectives on justice, harm and the principles of restorative justice, which focuses on encounter, repair and transformation.

Why it matters

As lawmakers, prosecutors and advocates in Pennsylvania debate a larger role for restorative justice practices, this workshop highlights the potential for healing, accountability and public safety to coexist through more empathetic and comprehensive approaches to criminal behavior.

The details

The workshop included activities like speed dating, word association, group art projects and Indigenous healing circle practices. Participants explored how they view 'justice' and 'harm,' and discussed the restorative justice model, which emphasizes bringing together those affected by a crime to address needs and move forward.

  • The workshop took place over two days in late 2025.
  • It comes as Pennsylvania considers expanding the use of restorative justice in the legal system.

The players

Let's Circle Up

A restorative justice organization that hosted the two-day workshop in West Philadelphia.

Felix Rosado

Co-founder of Let's Circle Up and one of the facilitators of the workshop.

Raymond Tucker

Facilitator who led participants through activities at the Let's Circle Up workshop.

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What’s next

As Pennsylvania lawmakers continue to debate the role of restorative justice, the outcomes and feedback from this workshop could help inform future policy decisions.

The takeaway

This workshop demonstrates the potential for restorative justice practices to foster healing, accountability and public safety through a more empathetic approach that brings together all those affected by a crime.