If Not You, Then Who?

When it comes to ex-offenders re-offending, the question is always asked, "Why don't they just get a job at the local grocery store or at McDonald's?". The answer is simple. The local grocery store and McDonald's both conduct criminal background checks and the do not hire convicted felons. So if that is the case, what is the ex-offender to do?

It is so easy to lay all of the blame on the one that "has a past". "It's his own fault." "She shouldn't have broken the law." " They made their bed, now that must lay in it." These are common sentiments as it relates to ex-offenders and the struggles they face on a daily basis. So many people live in the past and hold past transgressions over others' heads. Where does it stop?

I'll pose this question to you, if you were in the business of hiring, would you hire an ex-offender? If your answer is, NO, then you are part of the problem. Why do I say that, you may ask. It is because so many times we choose to ignore the fact that we hinder others with our prejudices and stereotypes, and then turn around and blame the one we are hindering, as if we have no part in the matter. So the next time you consider why crime is so high and why the rate of recidivism is through the roof, ask yourself what role you have in that.

Men and women need a chance. If not you, then who?