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Reflecting on the 2024 National Conference on Community and Restorative Justice

NACRJ Attendance 2024

This summer, Washington, D.C. and the greater DMV area (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virgina) served as the host of the 9th National Conference on Community and Restorative Justice, marking a defining moment in the conference’s seventeen-year history. With a record-breaking 1,902 attendees, the event reached new heights, highlighting the growing global interest in community and restorative justice. The conference, which began in 2007 with just 183 participants, has since become a cornerstone for individuals and organizations dedicated to, or seeking to learn about, community and restorative justice. This year’s gathering, themed Re-Envisioning our Legacies: A Defining Moment, was especially significant, drawing participants from 48 U.S. states, several Canadian provinces, and numerous countries worldwide.

A Rich Program of Engagement and Learning

This year’s conference program offered a wide range of opportunities for learning, connection, and collaboration. Some highlights include:

  • Specialized Tracks: Seven focused tracks addressing vital issues such as Ending Mass Incarceration and Law & Policy enabled attendees to delve deep into critical challenges and opportunities facing the field.
  • Keynote Speakers: Over 15 keynote speakers, including esteemed scholars, grassroots leaders, and justice advocates, shared their insights and experiences. Their contributions invited attendees to envision a safer and more equitable world.
  • Breakout Sessions: With over 180 breakout sessions and 375 presenters, the conference covered the breadth and depth of community and restorative justice. Attendees explored everything from the latest research and innovations to personal stories that underscored the human impact of these practices.
  • Exhibitors and Wellness Activities: More than 25 exhibitors showcased new resources, tools, and services relevant to the field. Complementing the keynote and breakout sessions were various wellness activities and spaces designed to promote attendees' mental, emotional, and physical well-being throughout the event.

A Global Movement

The expansion of the conference is a testament to the burgeoning interest in community and restorative justice. This year’s participants came together to share their diverse perspectives and create new pathways for collaboration, underscoring the global significance of this movement. As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, we look forward to continuing the conversation. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll share more photos, videos, and stories from the conference, offering a deeper look at the remarkable moments that made this gathering so impactful. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you to everyone who made this year’s conference a success!

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