We can debate & debate, but transformative vs punitive justice will always come down a question of belief: Do you believe that humans - that our world - can only be changed through punishment and pain? Is that how you have been changed in your life? Is that what you deserved?

I once worked as part of a team of mental health professionals in a children's hospital. There was a child who liked to break others' toys. One of the senior psychologists - and older white man - suggested that we have him create something out of Lego and break it. As therapy.

This is how deep, how early, how fundamentally the logic of punishment is woven into colonial society: We see punishment as justice, protection, education, even as healing. We rely on punishment for everything - To solve every major conflict in human relationships.

I am wary of the "it's not punishment, it's consequence!" discourse - though I believe in its utility. However, when emotions are high, we run the risk of simply switching terminology to mask a punitive position. The point is to de-centre hurting people to make them good again.

And I am not a pacificist. This is not about holding hands & singing songs in response to serious harm. I believe in self-defense (including physical), direct action, setting boundaries. These are distinct from punishment.