BYM’s Criminal and Restorative Justice Committee brought its table display on restorative justice, negotiation and treatment of prisoners to the first Taste of Justice Fair last September in Washington, D.C. The table was staffed by Kit Mason of Takoma Park, Jean Jones of Alexandria, and by volunteer Steve Smith.

During the fair, Friends talked with members of the public and with representatives from other organizations present; topics ranged from the nature of restorative justice and the difficulties of parolees in finding work and housing to the history of Friends’ involvement in criminal justice and in the Underground Railroad. In several conversations, it became necessary to point out in a friendly fashion that Quakers are not extinct, and are not directly connected with either oatmeal or motor oil. This information was received with appreciation, and several visitors expressed interest in attending Friends’ meetings near where they live.

About forty organizations attended the fair to provide information on aspects of their work concerning the criminal justice system and alternatives to current methods of dealing with prisoners and victims of crime. Another Taste of Justice Fair is planned for next year.

Kit Mason, clerk