In late November 2012 a newly formed steering group met to begin outlining the parameters, goals, name and programme of work for a new collaboration of 80+ campaigners, activists, academics, trade unionists, practitioners and people affected by the criminal justice system. This is just the start of a process and further dates are now set for 2013 to maintain momentum for this essential work to offer a new voice in the public debate about the overuse of criminal justice and the need for a dialogue about social justice and harm in society.
Our aims are:
- To campaign for a radical reduction in the size and scope of criminal justice.
- To promote genuine alternatives to criminal justice processes and social inequalities.
- To advocate for social justice solutions rather than punishment as a response to social problems, inequalities and harm.
What we call this new collaboration is still up for discussion with ‘Reclaiming justice’ and ‘Campaign against penal excess’ (CAPE) currently on the table. Let us know what you think – comment on the bottom of this post or email penalexcess@crimeandjustice.org.uk.
Reclaim Justice Network 
I think that ‘Reclaiming Justice’ is a much better title than anything to do with reducing penal excess, because penal excess is more likely to be reduced when there is more across-class equality before the law. Problem though with ‘Reclaiming Justice’ is that it implies that there is [or ever was] an ideal justice to be claimed. What about ‘The Justice and Equality Project ‘ ie working on a justice and equality agenda? (But think a more snappy title would be better…no ideas at moment)
I agree that Reclaiming Justice does not fully cover the aims of the collaboration, but has public appeal, which is important. I think of it more in terms of reclaiming the justice agenda.
How do you know that? (Just interested.) And even it has more public appeal, maybe ‘the public’ is ready for something new – like linking justice with equality rather than crime?
I firmly believe that restorative justice and conflict resolution are central to achieving your aims!
Hi Criminonymous, Well, I guess a lot of people would agree with you (though I don’t think I do) but can you explain WHY you think that? (Because restorative justice takes many forms, and I’m not sure what you mean by conflict resolution either – for example,do you mean within communities? or between rich and poor? or between warring nations?) Pat Carlen