Nineteen years ago, I walked out of prison determined to rebuild my life. Since then, I’ve stayed out of trouble, paid my dues, and worked tirelessly to be a contributing member of society. Yet, despite nearly two decades of living right, I’m still denied the basic rights that many take for granted.
The Lingering Shadow of a Past Mistake
Every day, I strive to be a better person than I was yesterday. But when it comes to voting, serving on a jury, or even chaperoning my child’s school trip, I’m reminded that my past still defines me in the eyes of the law.
The Importance of Restoring Rights
Restoring rights to individuals who have served their time isn’t about leniency; it’s about justice and rehabilitation. Studies have shown that re-enfranchisement can lead to lower recidivism rates and greater civic engagement. When people feel they have a stake in their community, they’re more likely to contribute positively to it.Encyclopedia Britannica
A Call for Change
It’s time to reevaluate policies that continue to punish individuals long after they’ve served their sentences. Restoring rights isn’t just about giving back what was taken; it’s about acknowledging growth, change, and the human capacity for redemption.
I’ve proven that I’m more than my past. Now, I ask for the opportunity to fully participate in the society I’ve worked so hard to rejoin.