2023 Down South Restorative Justice Conference

The Restorative Self: Exploring the Transformative Power of Language in Cultivating Change for Self and Communities

Participants will explore the importance of restorative communication in fostering meaningful change through thought-provoking discussions, interactive exercises, and reflective exercises.

As part of our exploration, we aim to empower individuals to use restorative language for personal growth and positive impact. Through restorative self-talk and positive affirmations, participants foster resilience, well-being, and a deeper sense of self.

In addition to discussing restorative practices, the workshop explores strategies for effective communication with others. Participants develop skills that foster harmonious relationships and supportive, compassionate communities by emphasizing active listening, conflict resolution, and empathy-building language.

Participants will acquire tools to facilitate restorative self-talk for fostering healing, liberation and joy. Each person will gain an enhanced understanding of Restorative Language, engage in activities to develop effective communication and leave with a newfound sense of empowerment for personal, professional growth and resilience.
L'Tomay Douglas Varlack-Butler, a daughter, sister, mother, grandma, and truthteller is a multifaceted professional, combining roles as a social worker, educator, and advocate, with specialized training in trauma. With 20 years in the helping profession, over 15 years in restorative justice practices and as a survivor scholar grounded in her faith, L'Tomay brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her roles as a restorative equity educator, consultant, and executive coach.

With a background in social work and a deep understanding of trauma, L'Tomay is well-equipped to address complex societal challenges and promote positive change. Her lived experiences influence her dedication to empowering marginalized communities, cultivating inclusive environments, and facilitating healing from trauma. With a global perspective, she has collaborated with NGOs, advocated for anti-violence programs for women and youth, and shared insights on women's rights in Haiti. Her work extends to facilitating restorative practices for adolescents affected by HIV in Romania and advancing inclusive pedagogy in South Africa.
L'Tomay is also a first-generation PhD candidate and was formerly an adjunct professor at Metropolitan College of New York and Vermont Graduate and Law School. She has conducted restorative justice training for universities and K-12 school districts, demonstrating her commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments.
Currently, she leads the anti-violence program and restorative justice initiatives at Worth Justice, a nonprofit dedicated to the belief that everyone's humanity is worth fighting for. Additionally, L'Tomay founded Brand Me Beautiful® an organization empowering survivors, women, and girls to reclaim their self-esteem and power by challenging narratives that undermine their potential.
A self-reflective superpower, L'Tomay is ready to share her insights, knowledge and experiences at the upcoming conference. Her work embodies the conference theme. She looks forward to contributing her expertise in addressing sensitive and critical issues, as well as in trauma, social work and restorative justice. This will be done through discussions and activities. L'Tomay believes that communication is the pathway to creating communities of care, moving through chaos, and healing.