Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council
Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council
Members of the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory have been trained to facilitate community justice values and principals. They are committed to the well being of the community by offering culturally based responses to conflict to strengthen the community and re-establish social harmony.
RESPECT: All those involved in a crime or conflict are provided with and opportunity for their input. We recognize that diverse points of view are part of creating wise, effective decisions.
REPAIR: the concept of repair includes restoring the peace & healing of individuals and community with a reasonable plan of accountability. This is an opportunity to repair the harm to the fullest extent possible.
RESPONSIBILITY: We share responsibility for the members of our community. Offenders are accountable to the victim and the community for their actions. We recognize that our actions, thoughts and attitudes affect others and that we are responsible to act for the greater good.
REINTEGRATION: The community takes an active roll in integrating all those involved in the crime or conflict with the community.
RELATIONSHIP: Each party involved is entitled to be heard and included in the development of a plan of action in a manner respectful of needs.
RESTORATION: support must be made available to each party as t to their needs and participation in a restorative plan of action.
WHAT HAPPENS IN A CIRCLE?
When a circle has been coordinated, we all gather. Ohenton Kariwatekwen is read. Welcoming by the facilitator, then we begin with the offender to tell the Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council…
- What happened? Or How did you become involved?
- What were you thinking of at that time?
- What have you thought about since?
- Who has been affected by what you have done? In what way?
- What do you think you need to do to make things right?
Everyone in the circle contributes to the fair, attainable measures for Offenders to accomplish to make things right relating to the harm that has been done. Agreement is signed by Community Neh Kanikonriio Council members and offender.
The community Neh Kanikonri:io Council cares about the COMMUNITY and our PEOPLE!
The essence of the Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council is to recognize and honor the values of peace and social harmony that were cherished in the past.
The main concern of the Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council is to take the time to listen to people’s needs, concerns and feelings.
The Community Neh Kanikonri:io Council offers opportunities for people to take ownership of their conflicts through a different process.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Community Neh Kanikonriio Council, please contact the ACJP for an application at 613-575-5000.