There is a stigma to being a family member of someone who has committed a violent crime and there is very little help available for families of criminals. A woman who has been there is speaking at a few events this week in Saskatchewan to advocate for restorative justice. Shannon Moroney’s husband sexually assaulted and kidnapped 2 women and then turned himself in to police. She speaks about the ripple effects of crime, because his acts affected the way people reacted to her, including losing her job as a guidance counselor. Moroney wanted answers and didn’t know how to move forward in her new reality. Moroney says the justice system can be cold, with lawyers focusing on getting the facts rather than considering who has been hurt, which is where restorative justice comes in. The offender is held responsible for his or her actions by providing an opportunity for those directly affected – the victims, offenders and communities – to identify and address their needs. It’s an option that many don’t realize is available. Moroney is speaking in Regina tomorrow (Tues) and Saskatoon on Wednesday and Thursday at a few different events for Restorative Justice Week.
These events brought to you by the Saskatchewan Restorative Justice Network, the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan and other community partners:

Tuesday November 19, 2019 (Regina)

F-Word: Exploring Forgiveness workshop from 10am-4pm at United Way Regina (1440 Scarth St.). Registration required.

Wednesday November 20, 2019 (Saskatoon)

Public Talk from 10am-11:30am at Saskatoon Police Headquarters Building (76 25 St. E.)

The Role of Restorative Justice in Dispute Resolution from 1pm-2:30pm at University of Saskatchewan College of Law (15 Campus Dr, Room 74)

Public Talk from 7pm-9pm at Roxy Theatre (320 20th St W.)

Thursday November 21 (Saskatoon)

The F-Word: Exploring Forgiveness workshop from 10:30am-4pm at Rusty MacDonald Library (225 Primrose Dr.)

Public Talk from 7pm-8:30pm at the Frances Morrison Central Library (311-23rd St E.)