AB 2833 – Restorative Justice Integrity Act

How does it align with yli’s values?

Restorative Justice is a practice and theory rooted in indigenous traditions. When put into practice, Restorative Justice is a community based, non-punitive set of processes that center the needs of people who have been harmed.

However, many people who would otherwise be interested in participating in a restorative justice process are dissuaded from participating because of fears that statements made during the process may be used against them. AB 2833 will add a provision in the Evidence Code to make these communications inadmissible, except in specified instances, encouraging open sharing and accountability, which has been linked to reducing recidivism, increasing survivor satisfaction, communities.

yli partners with thousands of youth across the state, the majority of whom are low-income youth of color. These young leaders have fought for policies that institute Restorative Justice processes in their schools and communities – Marin’s Social Host Ordinance, for example, established a restorative justice process for youth as an alternative to incarceration. They and their communities deserve a culturally competent  justice system that centers their experiences and voices, and seeks true repair and healing rather than punishment. We are staunch advocates of Restorative Justice processes as meaningful alternatives to the current justice system.

This policy aligns with our Racial Justice Platform, which addresses the impacts of the carceral system on communities of color.

What is yli doing about it?

We have just submitted a letter endorsing this bill, and we are showing our support on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Who supports this bill?

• American Friends Service Committee
• Californians for Safety and Justice
• Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice (CURYJ)
• Community Works
• Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice
• Initiate Justice
• RYSE Center