Restorative Justice Practices

Restorative justice is a community-centered approach to preventing and responding to harm. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, it emphasizes accountability, healing, and making amends. At its core, restorative justice is about building relationships, fostering meaningful accountability, and working toward repair and prevention through community. 

This approach centers the common good by seeking resolutions that are just and productive for all individuals involved—as well as for the broader community. 

Restorative justice recognizes that rights and responsibilities are deeply connected. Living justly in community requires us to be accountable for how our choices affect others. When someone causes harm, they have a primary responsibility to help repair it—and may be the only person who can provide what is truly needed (such as an explanation or acknowledgment). However, some needs—like support, accompaniment, or counseling—are best met by others. A restorative community shares in the responsibility of ensuring justice needs are addressed. 

Restorative practices are the tools and strategies used to apply restorative justice principles in everyday interactions. They help build strong relationships, address harm, and repair or reconcile connections among individuals and within communities. 

At Loyola, we believe relationship-building is foundational to restorative justice work. When we invest in authentic connection and community, we are less likely to cause harm. And when harm does occur, restoring relationships and rebuilding trust becomes a shared priority. 

Our current offerings 

If you’d like to learn more, please contact the Office of Student Integrity and Restorative Justice Practices. 

Resources