Artist Statement:
We believe all students have a right to a restorative school community, where everyone feels safe and able to be their true selves. Restorative Justice League (RJL) is our middle school's youth-led restorative club. As young people, we are not afraid to lead the change into the future! Chris (pictured left) and Deado (pictured right) are wearing our RJL sweaters that Chris designed last year that shows peace breaking down barriers, no matter how strong those barriers may seem. Our photo is taken by Peter Ventresca outside our school in Denver, CO and showcases RJL youth taking a stand and leading our restorative school community. The rainbow signifies acceptance and hope for students of all backgrounds and identities. Our photo was edited by Mathias who wove in the idea of pushing restorative justice not only to our schools, but beyond all borders.
Skinner Middle School is located in Denver, Colorado and has been a leader in restorative work within Denver Public Schools for the last 13 years.
Skinner Middle School's Restorative Justice League: Diego Bueno (7th grade), Luciano Apodaca (8th grade), Deado Canales (8th grade), Ryan Gonzales (8th grade), Chris Pettis (8th grade), Mathias Quezada-Montoya (8th grade), Peter Ventresca (Restorative Practice Coordinator), Allison Horton (Restorative Practice Coordinator)
Location: USA
This project is supported by Grant No. 2020-MU-CX-K001 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Bureau of Justice Assistance is a component of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the Office for Victims of Crime, and the SMART Office. Points of view, images, or opinions in this document and are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.