Do You Believe In Giving Second Chances?

If someone has paid their debt to society after committing a crime, should they be allowed the same rights and privileges as other citizens? In theory, most Americans believe in second chances, but in practice, there are layers of discriminatory practices that prevent people with criminal records from moving on with their lives.

In the United States, we have the largest prison population in the world, and the second-highest rate of incarceration in the world. So, it’s not surprising that one in four American adults has a criminal record. This record limits their access to educational scholarships, jobs, housing, and other things that are necessary for a productive life. There are more than 48,000 documented legal restrictions in addition to the social stigma that limits their potential. This is called the “second prison”.

April is Second Chances Month, proclaimed by President Biden on March 31, 2021. Prison Fellowship founded Second Chance Month to raise awareness and improve perceptions of people with a criminal record, encourage second-chance opportunities, and work toward policy change. 

Many Americans support the idea of a “clean slate”. One quarter strongly agrees that former prisoners should not face any further penalties after they are released. But we don’t make room at the table for them. They want the same things as every other citizen. They want the ability to survive financially, have safe and adequate housing, and conduct themselves as contributing members of their communities. However, 90% of people who were formerly incarcerated struggle to find employment within the first year after release. Or, they may be restricted to low-wage or part-time jobs.  Landlords are reluctant to rent to them, causing some to be homeless. They are barred from licensing in many professions. They are unable to vote. The combined effect contributes to high rates of recidivism.

So, why should we give them a second chance? We feel happier when we forgive someone else. Personality is not set in stone. People can change and learn from their mistakes. They want an opportunity to demonstrate change.

Once a culture becomes more forgiving, there are payoffs for its citizens. The United States ranked #4 in citing forgiveness as a value. It is a critical element in breaking cycles of violence and conflict. Forgiveness might lead to healing and reconciliation.

Our communities are safer when people can transform their lives. Meaningful employment is essential for reducing future crime among people who have previously been incarcerated or are under community supervision.

Turn the tables and imagine that it’s you who needs the second chance. You made a mistake, you feel ashamed and live with regret. You would feel better if you were allowed to redeem yourself.

What can you do to help an individual who has a prior record and is looking for a second chance? Pull them in from the fringes of society. Judge each individual on who they are today, and not on who they were in their past. Include or refer them to support groups and neighborhood networks. If asked, provide positive references if you believe they have a good work ethic or high character. If you are a landlord, consider positive factors such as good credit, work history, and informal reference letters.

Not everyone deserves a second chance. But if our judicial system has determined that they have sufficiently paid the price for their crime, we must not throw obstacles in their way. They should be provided an opportunity to rejoin their community with dignity.