Why We Should Care

Imagine stepping out into the world after years of isolation, only to find every door of opportunity closed. This is the harsh reality for many formerly incarcerated individuals who struggle to reintegrate into society, like birds finally released from a cage only to find the sky itself has fallen. Despite having served their time, they seem to face systemic barriers, from housing shortages to limited job opportunities. The data speaks for itself: a study by the Prison Policy Initiative revealed that a surprising 33% of over 50,000 people released from federal prisons in 2010 remained unemployed for four years post-release.

Why should we, as a society, care? Because empathy is the foundation of our humanity. If you made a wrong choice, and made up for it, wouldn't you want a second chance? After all, prisoners are humans as well. They deserve opportunities to turn their lives around too.

The risk of recidivism becomes larger when the formerly incarcerated are denied these opportunities. Studies show that lack of support and resources leads many back into the criminal justice system, creating a cycle. By providing chances for employment and social support, we can break this cycle.

However, their issues are not limited to economic hardships. According to a statewide cohort, the suicide risk among previously incarcerated individuals is 62% higher compared to the general population. This is a sad reminder of the impact societal rejection can have on an individual.

As a high-school student who took a VHS course in criminology, I've learned that understanding and empathy are powerful tools for change. If I, a mere highschooler, can understand this, surely the rest of us can too. We should open our hearts and minds to give these individuals the second chance they deserve. Let’s offer them a path to a new life. Together, we can turn the page on past mistakes and write a story of redemption and reintegration, helping them become valued, contributing members of our society once again.