Crime stats can be misleading

Re We owe it to Toronto’s homicide victims to look beyond law enforcement, Keenan, Nov. 20

It is so refreshing to finally come across a column that recognizes the victims who all too often slip into a statistic that quickly fades from our memory.

With all the mass shootings, acts of terrorism and homicides, it is hard not to be in a constant state of fear. However, we must not get caught up in these uncommon and unusual horrific acts, as the crime rate has been on the decline for many years now.

Fear tends to breed anger, hatred and a need for retribution, but this may cause further harm to the victims and society as a whole.

Although it may seem like an uncomfortable concept, embracing and supporting the people we are so afraid of might just be the best solution.

After volunteering with a restorative justice program that works with at-risk youth and young offenders, I have realized just how important it is to build connections with and mentor these kids who have been deprived of the basic things in life we all take for granted.

By using restorative justice practices, offenders can be peacefully and successfully reintegrated back into our society, victims can be provided with the voice they deserve, the recidivism rates can begin to decline and, most importantly, our communities can be brought closer together. Rebecca Ward, Guelph