Tomorrow Talks | The Courage to Repair: An Introduction Restorative Justice

As we prepare for the 14th Annual Tom Tom Festival (April 22–26, 2026), whose theme is COURAGE, the Tomorrow Talk series invites us to explore what courage looks like—in our personal lives, our neighborhoods, our communities, and our society.

The Courage to Repair asks a simple but profound question: what if courage meant facing harm with empathy, accountability, and a genuine willingness to heal? In this interactive workshop, Erin Campbell of Central Virginia Community Justice (CVCJ) introduces restorative frameworks and practices that strengthen individuals and the communities they belong to. By slowing down, listening deeply, and honoring everyone’s humanity, participants explore how conflict can be transformed into connection.

Drawing on CVCJ’s innovative restorative justice model—used by Charlottesville and Albemarle’s criminal legal systems to divert cases from the courtroom—participants learn how restorative approaches reduce trauma, foster empathy, and create safer, more compassionate communities. Through journaling, pair sharing, and potentially circle process, the session invites participants to examine our ingrained reliance on punitive responses and consider how restoration can bring greater repair, safety, and healing. Together, we ask what it truly means to be courageous enough to repair.

/// TICKETS ///

Registration is required. Tickets are offered at GA ($30) and Scholarship ($15).

/// ABOUT TOMORROW TALKS ///

The Tomorrow Talks are a year-long series that picks up critical themes from our April Festival and continues the conversations to create impact in Charlottesville. Each session is facilitated with an emphasis on participation, connection, and new collaborations. Tomorrow Talks begin with a connection exercise or meditation, and proceed into a presentation and breakout activities. They aim to impart knowledge that is practical and relevant to people's lived experience; combining academic or theoretical insights, alongside pragmatic tools, and experiential and somatic learnings.

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Host or Publisher Tom Tom Foundation