After a person leaves the prison system there is a huge misconception that they have “served their time” and can quickly get back into the world.
The reality is, reentry is rocky. Formerly incarcerated people face barriers to finding work and gaining educational opportunities. Having a criminal record also has a stigma attached.
People with records face with fundamental issues with housing, employment, transportation and putting food on the table. Without a support network, reentry becomes even harder. If a person returns to the same community, they will likely have limited economic options, which can lead to other crimes.
Everybody deserves a second chance and should be treated like a human. But having a criminal record can prevent people from exercising certain civil and constitutional rights, like voting, serving in the military, accessing public housing and legally possessing a firearm.
Prison reentry programs also help decrease the likelihood of repeat offenders. There needs to be infrastructure in place to help people with records have access to safe housing, education, work and healthcare. But most prison release programs in the country are severely under-funded. Some focus on creating job training and employment opportunities, while others focus on reducing the threat of substance abuse and treating mental health issues, but many are piecemeal.
Reentry programs are a critical step to help reduce recidivism and reintroduce people to society and business leaders can help individuals who have recently been released from incarceration. They should be open to hiring qualified candidates who are eager to work but are being held back by a prior criminal conviction. Businesses can also support nonprofits financially with donations.
Finally, business leaders they can “spread the word” about this issue and these programs, which will help bring more awareness, always the first step in making positive progress.
