By Ryan Eykholt
Dane County TimeBank

Ryan Eykholt, a staff member at Dane County TimeBank, interviewed co-worker and Restorative Justice Coordinator Kayasia Blake. 

Ryan Eykholt: What do you find most valuable about your work in restorative justice?

Kayasia Blake: It’s so moving to see folks from different backgrounds and spaces from one another tap into accountability and gain knowledge instead of finding comfort in placing blame and/or punitive measures toward others. The other big takeaway is finding voices in Black and Brown youth of color, who are historically marginalized and most affected by policing policies in the school setting, and who haven’t had the opportunity to be listened to. I think the change in power dynamics that restorative justice offers can give students the chance to grow their leadership skills and build community with people who don’t otherwise listen to them. 

RE: How have your past experiences participating in circles as a LaFollette student informed how you now approach facilitating circles as a restorative justice coordinator?

KB: My experience with restorative justice in high school gave me the unique experience of seeing through others’ lens with a sense of understanding instead of judgment. I’ve been able to use that in adulthood, and I’m now in the position to facilitate circles while showing others how to exude that same sense of understanding. 

RE: How would you like to see restorative justice grow both in the schools and larger communities?

KB: I’d like folks in the school systems to continue doing the work to change the age-old structures that have caused so much damage in our communities. I also want to see the measures that youth are taking to be respected in this work because they will absolutely be the ones carrying the torch. I’d love to see systems of power become comfortable in a change in the power dynamics because obviously what has been going on for so long is not working. 

Please visit danecountytimebank.org/projects/restorative-justice for more information.