ABSTRACT
This chapter suggests how individuals might live out principles of relational justice. Essential character traits for criminal justice professionals are set out: courage, humility, faith in justice and care for the hurt. Courage is needed to do right when others urge less costly, more pragmatic approaches; emotional courage is required to stand close to the hurt. Humility is needed to avoid the temptations of personalized morality (good guys versus bad guys). Faith in justice entails a commitment to its possibility when others doubt it. Care for the hurt is essential to moral regard but is difficult because it often leads to disappointment.
The responsibility of the public for relational justice is explored. Self-awareness—a willingness to interrogate one’s own feelings about justice—is an important part of gaining a larger perspective. So are efforts to step closer to people who seem different.
The author draws from personal experience to give examples of relational justice values in law teaching and jail ministry. The chapter closes with how the American dream for immigrants and migrants has included a dream of justice: that victims of violence will be heard, and perpetrators brought to account, regardless of social status.
