Pirate Turns 40

This manuscript describes the lived experiences of a group of researchers as they navigated the community development and movement toward the implementation of restorative justice as an alternative to zero tolerance policies for high school youth Cannabis offenders. The manuscript explains and describes events, conflicts and results of navigating the process of how a community developed movement toward restorative justice and restorative practices using implementation science. Eight steps toward community implementation, including stake holders meeting, restorative justice trainings, conferences and connection circles in local schools, are described using a creative pirate theme which illustrates the treasures uncovered over the 2 year-long work toward change. Deliberate reflection is given to marginalized and oppressed populations. The article offers insightful analysis and critique of the change process including the treasures and limitations of community change. An emphasis is placed on describing the analysis of the issues from multiple perspectives so that movement can seamlessly evolve into momentum.