Join Louisville Grows for an Urban Growers Series Coffee and Conversation with Jonathan McRay. Jonathan will discuss the concept of restorative justice, why it’s central to the work of a healthy community, and share how he practiced restorative justice and agroecology at a community-based homestead project in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a project committed to cultivating and celebrating works of mercy, social justice, and ecological health to build a more productive and happy society. Jonathan’s work includes an education and demonstration center for sustainable and just living (including a neighborhood orchard at Salvation Army, small food forests, urban woodlots, and community gardens); a supportive home for friends experiencing homelessness, addiction, abuse, and those seeking refuge from war; and an organizing hub to hatch broader works in the community.

Coffee and light snacks will be served. There is a $10 suggested donation.

Jonathan McRay is an expert in ecological design, agroecology, restorative justice, and community development currently residing in Tennessee. He has an MA in conflict transformation from the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding. Jonathan worked in Palestine as a journalist and nonviolent activist, and is the author of “You Have Heard It Said: Events of Reconciliation” and “The Transfigured Earth: Jubilee and the Transformation of Watersheds.” He has worked with a resource center and community farm in Mozambique and obtained his permaculture design certification from Oregon State University.