RAMP was established as a restorative justice program, delivered by Aboriginal people, for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people who come into conflict with the law. RAMP brings people and resources together in an effort to repair the harm that has been done with the commission of an offense. This process is a viable alternative to the formal court process.
What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative justice is a form of criminal justice in which the goal is to rehabilitate offenders while repairing the harm caused to victims and the broader community.
RAMP’s process is designed to help bring closure for victims and to give offenders a chance to be accountable for their actions. This process brings all stakeholders, whether directly involved (victims and offenders) or indirectly involved (the broader community), together in determining a fair response of repairing harm caused by conflict.
Restorative justice is an alternative response to crime that unlike the traditional court process brings people together in a hope for those involved to voice their concerns and be involved in the outcome. The traditional court works as a means of retribution and often does not give victims a voice throughout the process. Therefore, RAMP’s goal is to allow victims an opportunity to tell their story and voice their concerns. Further, RAMP offers offenders an opportunity to be accountable and take responsibility for the crime(s) they commit and the harm they have caused to victims and the broader community.