With the many violent crimes being featured in the news lately, it's an opportunity to reflect on the portrayal of offenders. The average citizen may have a disturbing and stereotypical image in mind of a violent psychopath when thinking of a criminal. This is in drastic contrast to the fact that 76 per cent of all admissions to provincial custody are for non-violent offenses (statcan.gc.ca). The government spent more than $20 billion on the criminal justice system in 2011. Who is costing this much money and resources to house? The poor, the hungry, those with mental health or drug use issues become in conflict with the law because of a lack of community resources. $20 billion could probably help support community-based programming aimed at responding to peoples needs and preventing criminal activity. More importantly, we could focus on Restorative Justice in diverting people from the court system. Restorative Justice promotes reparation and reconciliation between victim and offender and community. It would save the government billions of dollars and create safer, vibrant and more connected communities. Would you rather live somewhere that "bad people" are locked away, or, a community where good people are not punished for the structural circumstances of their lives that create poverty, poor health and diminished choice? Restorative Justice would stop the revolving door of jails and increase social inclusion which leads to a better quality of life, for everyone.
Robyn Ocean
Prince George
