Where: Port Angeles Main Library
When: Saturdays
October 24th, 2026: 11:00AM - 1:00PM
November 07th, 2026: 1:15PM - 3:00PM
December 05th, 2026: 1:00PM - 3:30PM
A Restorative Justice Circle is a structured community gathering to talk about and potentially resolve an issue.
If you are between the ages of 11-17 you are welcome to participate in our youth leadership program and learn to tend circles through storytelling. We are offering ongoing circles and training for those who want to learn to lead community circles. This series is experiential. Come and try it out and see if it’s your vibe. All learning styles are welcome. This program is free, you just need parent/guardian approval (waiver signed) before taking part.
The purpose of this project is to give you a safe, supportive opportunity to learn how to host community listening circles, practice healthy ways of sharing power, and engage thoughtfully with local issues that affect our community.
Youth circle keepers host the community circles focused on protecting nature and discussing the impac of AI data centers. They use Washington AI Resistance public toolbox to build the community circles. The goal is not to pressure youth to perform, advocate, or take a public position, but to help you practice facilitation, listening, and community problem-solving skills.
To clarify expectations:
- Participation is voluntary.
- Parent/guardian permission is required for all youth participants.
- Parents/guardians will sign waivers before participation.
- Teens will not be pressured to attend, speak, perform, advocate, or represent any political groups.
- The events will be held in a library meeting room and will follow applicable library rules and expectations.
- The project is a youth training and community listening opportunity, not requiring youth to engage in lobbying or political advocacy.
We believe this is a meaningful opportunity for youth to build confidence, practice facilitation, and participate in community dialogue in a safe and supported way.
Presented by Olympic Climate Action.
Meet your circle trainers:
Gabriel Barzola Read
I am a student at Port Angeles high school. I identify as genderqueer. I Iove Clairo, choir and being a part of something.
Liliana Barzola
I am an entrepreneur, mestiza and mother of two. I was taught to lead restorative justice circles by The Restorative Center in Newburgh, NY. The best trainers there were the teens, I learned so much from them and I saw how powerful it was to have them lead inter-generational circles. What makes me a good teacher? During my youth, I went to a lot of different schools. I had to make new friends all the time. I am dyslexic so I understand that we all have different learning styles. I personally learn by doing.
