Re-Entry Justice Story: A Clean Start
On a Saturday morning, Chloe M. went into her job, hoping to continue working her way up in the company. Instead she was told that a background check had come in which made her unqualified for promotion to management and, in fact, she was going to be terminated. Chloe’s pastor encouraged her and told her about the Clinic’s Expungement Help Desk.
ICYMI: May 2019
In case you missed it, for the month of May, we highlighted Project GRACE and our Expungement Help Desk, unique client stories, national media coverage of the work being done by our staff, and the importance of the Second Chance Law for the flourishing of our communities. We kicked off the month with a special message from Help Desk Manager Julie Mennel.
Leaving the Past Behind
Carlton says, “It used to be, back in the past—1800s, 1700s—people committed crimes because there was something inherently flawed in them—that was the thought. And that’s still the mindset: you are a deviant because that is what you are.” Carlton is quick to point out, however, that most of the people he sees made a mistake when they were young. And yet a crime committed 20 years earlier might prevent them from finding sufficient employment even into their middle age. “If you don’t have a job, you’re not making any money. Not making any money, you can’t pay your child support. Can’t pay your child support, you can’t have your license … so your livelihood just goes, ‘Boom!’” Carlton makes an exploding gesture with his hands. “You can’t pay your bills, and then you’re in a position where bankruptcy is an option.”