Breaking Bread and Breaking Barriers
Forgiveness and generosity aren’t just Thanksgiving principles. For many people, they’re core values — that’s one of the reasons support for Clean Slate has gained so much momentum: People believe in the power of redemption.
As we gather with loved ones this week, we all have an opportunity to focus on the things that connect us, rather than what divides us. We can use those core values to engage in open and honest conversations about the challenges faced by people with arrest and conviction records, which can help dismantle stigmas associated with records. We can channel the spirit of forgiveness and generosity to build connections with the people around our tables. And then, we can extend that spirit beyond our tables and into our communities, building connections that embrace redemption.
There are several things we can do to build connection in support of redemption:
Connect to the cause by volunteering at an expungement clinic. Consider volunteering at expungement clinics, which help individuals navigate the often-complex process of clearing their records. Our recent impact survey highlighted that many people with records struggle to access and understand petition-based record relief, and these clinics are a great opportunity to help break those barriers. Find more information about expungement clinics happening near you by checking in with your state’s Clean Slate campaign.
Connect with businesses to encourage second chance hiring. Businesses have an opportunity to play a pivotal role in breaking barriers for people with records by hiring based on qualification, not past mistakes. When people have steady, well-paying jobs, they have a much better shot at redemption. Find more information and resources about second chance hiring by visiting the Responsible Business Justice Initiative’s website.
Connect on social media to spread awareness about second chance resources. Many people are unaware of resources like Clean Slate laws, expungement clinics, and other record relief options. Uplifting this kind of information helps it reach more people and continues the normalization of living with a record. The Clean Slate Initiative’s social media pages is a resource for sharing all kinds of content related to Clean Slate and second chances. Follow us on social media and share our content with your networks.
By embracing the spirit of forgiveness, generosity, and connection this Thanksgiving, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of people in America who deserve a second chance.