How to use Restorative Justice Circles to lead better groups (Part 1 with Frank Velasquez Jr.)
In this week’s episode, Frank Velásquez Jr. joins Chris and Lucie to share his journey into restorative justice, leadership as a person of color, and how restorative circles can transform organizational culture. Discover practical insights on authentic leadership, facilitation, and creating safe spaces for difficult conversations.
- Leaders of color often struggle with authenticity due to organizational and societal pressures.
- The importance of being authentic to yourself
- What are Restorative Justice Circles and how are they different from other types of group facilitation?
- How can you use agreements to change the tone of your group sessions
About Frank (He/Him/His)
Storyteller Extraordinaire, Social Justice Warrior, and Relationship Cultivator! In relentless pursuit of racial and gender equity, Frank’s warmth brings folks together to talk through the tough stuff. To Frank, every person’s story matters like each ingredient in a yummy bowl of gumbo. Each standing on its own, but together making something unforgettable.
From major conferences like the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, AFP ICON, and AFP Lead to training rooms everywhere from Walt Disney World to the MGM Grand Las Vegas, Frank has reached thousands of folks with narratives that just hit different, leaving each group invigorated with his unique blend of storytelling magic, quick wit, and social justice fire!
As the Founder of 4 Da Hood and the visionary behind the Ascending Leaders in Color leadership program, Frank forges pathways for Peeps of Color to step into their power - authentically, courageously, and with unapologetic joy. Because for Frank, advancing equity isn’t just a job - it's about thriving in a world our ancestors dreamed for us, a world where communities of color have the same access and opportunity to build their generational wealth.
And he's doing it one connection, one story, one courageous conversation at a time.
Connect with Frank:
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankvelasquezjr/
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/frankvelasquezjr
- Restorative Justice Practices - International Institute for Restorative Practices - https://www.iirp.edu/
- 4DaHood - Organization founded by Frank Velásquez Jr. - https://4dahood.org/
- Ascending Leaders of Color Program - https://ascendingleaders.org/
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