In honoring Dr. King on this day of service, DNDA will engage Delridge and surrounding communities in constructive conversation about how race and justice influence each other in modern-day America. In examining what it means to have justice, this event will bring together neighbors of all ethnicities and races to bridge our differences and communicate through a restorative justice approach. Utilizing the peacemaking circle, participants will engage in a non-hierarchical discussion and learn through the collective wisdom embedded in the stories and lived experiences of all participants. This event will include a screening of the film Healing Justice, which explores the causes and consequences of the U.S. justice system and its effect on marginalized communities. Local service-based organizations will be invited to participate and advocate for the resources they provide—including organizations like Hate Free Delridge and Young Women Empowered. Following the event, all participants and volunteers will be invited to continue discussing over a community dinner.
By engaging the community through a foundation of critical dialogue and restorative justice, individuals will develop a greater self-awareness, heal wounds in the presence of community, and see common humanity in those around them. At the same time, individuals will learn skills and gain access to resources that will position them to be leaders in our community and change makers for the future. Volunteers at this event will help deliver these outcomes by assisting with event set-up and take-down, welcoming guests upon arrival and participating in the peacemaking circle practice.
To maximize our outreach to historically underserved communities, residents of DNDA’s seven affordable housing properties will be directly invited to attend. As our community is both multiracial and multiethnic, this event will strengthen ties between individuals as well as local organizations geared toward improving the lives of those residing in Southwest Seattle.
Food and childcare will be provided.
