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Restorative Justice

Day of Responsibility

Helping myself and others to grow…

  1. The healing begins with me.
  2. I am able to respond.
  3. I am to the world as I am to myself.

These mantras, created by men incarcerated at State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Dallas, PA, reflect the power of participation in a Day of Responsibility.

"I did gain a greater perspective of my role in society and what it could and should be."

The Day of Responsibility, a day long seminar conceived by men with long-term sentences, brings together community members and incarcerated individuals to explore the impact of crime and discuss the possibilities for personal accountability, community responsibility, and a commitment to living responsible lives on a personal level.

Regardless of whether one is looking toward a return to community life, currently living in the community, or looking to improve prison life, the Day of Responsibility challenges all participants to be responsible community members.

With the support and assistance of the Pennsylvania Prison Society, incarcerated individuals design and coordinate the day.

The Day of Responsibility consists of both facilitated sessions with guest speakers and small group discussions.

"I liked the most the open display of honest opinions and the experience between the guests and the inmates."

Morning

  1. Introductions
  2. What is responsibility?
  3. Impact of crime on victims
  4. Impact of crime on the families of offenders

Afternoon

  1. Impact of crime on the community
  2. Ways to make amends and to take responsibility for our actions
  3. Motivation to make positive changes and to live responsibly
  4. Small group discussion

"I signed the pledge because its time to take responsibility for my actions."

At the end of the day, both incarcerated and community participants are invited to sign pledges, the Prisoners Pledge and the Responsibility Pledge, respectively, that challenge them to a responsible life.

Each day typically runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Participants arrive at the security gate prior to 9:00 am to be cleared for entrance. Lunch is provided within the prison. All participants must be approved by the institution.