Project Reset:Bronx Community Justice Highlight



Unexpected connections:
Our two participants, Dario, a 19-year-old Latino man from the Bronx who was arrested for graffiti, and Lucas, a 28-year-old white man from Queens arrested for marijuana possession, initially appeared to have nothing in common. Despite their significant differences, the circle process helped the two men identify common points of connection, including the fact that Lucas was currently employed as electrical engineer, while Dario was hoping to join a union to become an engineer after having graduated high school. When discussing their reactions to their arrests, the two men described their drastically different experiences with law enforcement, and their shared desires to avoid future justice involvement. During the circle, both participants opened up about personal challenges they have experienced in their families and relationships, and the community member, Khalil, shared about the role that toxic masculinity has played in preventing himself and other men in his community from seeking needed mental health and supportive services. At the end of the circle, both participants expressed gratitude for the ability to participate in the circle process, for having the opportunity to both share personal and vulnerable stories, and for the chance to develop connections with someone from a different walk of life. 


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