The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will host the panel discussion “Transformative Justice: Healing, Not Harm” March 25 at 6 p.m.
The discussion, featuring a panel of thinkers and activists from around the University and the Morgantown community, will explore the idea of transformative justice and the ways individuals and communities, including victims of racist murders and white supremacist violence, may begin to heal.
“In the last year, there has been intensified attention on the ideas of police and prison abolition,” said J. Spenser Darden, director of diversity initiatives and community engagement. “Some say the criminal justice system is inherently unjust - built upon a foundation of racism, sexism and exploitation - while others question how an organized society can thrive without a system of accountability. If the purpose of communities is to provide a safe space for citizens to thrive - one that protects people and businesses, deters crime, and responds to harm that occurs - how can such a space be organized without people who enforce order? Enter the idea of transformative justice: a belief in a society that is reorganized around dignity and humanity of all people; one that prioritizes reconciliation over punishment.”
Panelists include:
Meshea L. Poore, Esq., vice president for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Tracey Picou, senior multidisciplinary studies major and president of WVU Chapter of NAACP and 100 Black Women.
Mollie Kennedy, community outreach director for ACLU West Virginia.
Akeya Carter-Bozman, prevention specialist.
Ash Orr, chair of Morgantown Human Rights Commission.
Join the panel discussion on Zoom.