To assess the success of our solution, we will use a pre and post-implementation evaluation method. This will include tracking the employment rates of individuals with criminal records, conducting surveys and interviews with employers and community members, and monitoring crime rates. Additionally, we will also collaborate with research institutions to conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of our solution on the community.
the proposed solution, in collaboration with TJ Parker, Tito Brown, and Jerry Greene, using Kotter’s Model, aims to address the pressing issue of discrimination against individuals with criminal records in Youngstown. By implementing this solution, we hope to create a more inclusive and equitable community, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively. The success of this solution will be measured through a comprehensive assessment plan, ensuring that the change is sustainable and has a positive impact on the community.
1. Urgency is key in addressing this pressing issue. The negative impact it has on both individuals and the community cannot be ignored any longer.
2. By building a coalition of influential and resourceful individuals such as TJ Parker, Tito Brown, and Jerry Greene, we can drive real change and make a difference.
3. Our vision is to create a community where individuals with criminal records are given equal opportunities for employment, leading to a decrease in poverty and crime rates.
4. It’s important to communicate our vision and strategy to all stakeholders, including community members, policymakers, and employers, in order to gain their support and involvement.
5. We will empower action by working closely with employers to implement “ban the box” policies and provide training and education opportunities for individuals with criminal records.
6. Our success will be measured by tracking the increase in employment rates for individuals with criminal records, and we will celebrate each milestone along the way.
7. In order to sustain the change, we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders and address any challenges that may arise.
8. Our goal is to institutionalize the change by advocating for policies and laws that promote fair hiring practices for individuals with criminal records. This will ensure a lasting impact and a more inclusive community for all.
Introduction:
Community issues are a prevalent and pressing concern that affects individuals and society as a whole. These issues can range from economic hardships, social inequalities, and systemic injustices. One such issue that has been gaining attention in recent years is the difficulty faced by people with criminal records, especially Black men, in obtaining employment opportunities due to discrimination. This issue not only affects the individuals directly but also has a ripple effect on their families and communities. In this memo, we will discuss the current situation of this issue and the key findings that support the need for action, as well as persuade our stakeholders to take action by citing relevant research.
Synopsis of the Current Situation:
According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Justice, individuals with criminal records face significant barriers when seeking employment, with Black men being disproportionately affected. The study found that Black men with criminal records were 60% less likely to receive job callbacks than white men with similar records (Solomon,2014). This discrimination is further perpetuated by the lack of opportunities for education and training for individuals with criminal records, making it challenging for them to break the cycle of poverty and recidivism.
The inability to obtain gainful employment leads to financial instability, making it difficult for these individuals to provide for themselves and their families. This, in turn, can lead to increased poverty, crime rates, and a strain on social services, which ultimately affects the entire community.
Key Findings and the Need for Action:
The key findings mentioned above highlight the urgent need for action to address this community issue. Not only is there a clear violation of basic human rights, but it also has adverse effects on the individuals, their families, and the community as a whole. Furthermore, studies have shown that providing employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records can lead to a decrease in recidivism rates, making it a cost-effective solution for society (Toler & Boone, 2022).
Persuading Stakeholders to Take Action:
To address this issue, it is crucial to engage and persuade our stakeholders to take action. One way to do this is by citing research that emphasizes the impact of discrimination on individuals with criminal records and the benefits of providing employment opportunities. For instance, a study by the Prison Policy Initiative found that states that implemented “ban the box” policies, which remove the criminal history question on job applications, saw a 4% increase in employment for formerly incarcerated individuals. This not only benefits the individuals but also has positive effects on the economy and society as a whole.
To effectively address this issue, it is essential to involve key thought leaders and decision-makers in the community. One approach to identifying these individuals is by networking and reaching out to organizations and advocacy groups that focus on criminal justice reform and employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records. These organizations often have established relationships with thought leaders and decision-makers and can help facilitate communication.
Another approach is to utilize social media and online platforms to engage with these individuals directly. Platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter can be powerful tools in reaching out to key stakeholders and building relationships with them. Additionally, organizing community forums and town hall meetings can also provide an opportunity to engage with thought leaders and decision-makers and discuss potential solutions to this issue.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the current situation of discrimination faced by individuals with criminal records, particularly Black men, is a pressing community issue that requires immediate action. The key findings mentioned above highlight the urgency and importance of addressing this issue. It is crucial to engage and persuade our stakeholders, such as TJ Parker, Tito Brown, and Jerry Greene, to take action and work towards finding solutions. By utilizing various approaches, such as networking, social media, and community events, we can involve key thought leaders and decision-makers and work towards creating a more just and equitable society.
references:
Solomon, L. (2014, June 14). In Search of a Job: Criminal Records as Barriers to Employment | National Institute of Justice. National Institute of Justice. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/search-job-criminal-records-barriers-employment
Toler, & Boone. (2022, August 23). Reducing recidivism through corrections and workforce partnerships. Corrections1. https://www.corrections1.com/re-entry-and-recidivism/articles/reducing-recidivism-through-corrections-and-workforce-partnerships-51Vy80VAa03lrcAK/
Ban the Box. (2021, June 29). https://www.ncsl.org/civil-and-criminal-justice/ban-the-box
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Reference: Westrope. (2018, March). Employment Discrimination on the Basis of Criminal History: Why an Anti-Discrimination Statute is a Necessary Remedy. Retrieved from
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Westrope (2018) argues for an anti-discrimination statute specifically targeting employment discrimination based on criminal history, highlighting the limitations of current remedies and the societal benefits of such a statute.
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The article discusses the inadequacy of current remedies, such as expungement statutes and “ban the box” provisions, with statistical data on unemployment rates among individuals with criminal records.
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Westrope effectively uses legal analysis and empirical evidence to make a compelling case for legislative change, suggesting that an anti-discrimination statute could significantly improve employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records.
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This discussion links to broader issues of recidivism and social reintegration, emphasizing that employment discrimination is a key barrier to successful community reentry for individuals with criminal histories.
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Reference: Effectiveness of Ban-the-Box Laws
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E. & Fowler (2021) evaluate the effectiveness of Ban-the-Box laws in reducing discrimination against prospective employees with a criminal record, questioning the adequacy of these laws and proposing improvements.
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Through case studies and analysis of employment data before and after the implementation of Ban-the-Box laws, the authors identify mixed results in terms of reducing discrimination.
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The article provides a nuanced view, suggesting that while Ban-the-Box laws have some positive impacts, they are not a panacea and need to be part of a broader set of reforms to address employment discrimination effectively.
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This article is linked to the ongoing debate about the most effective strategies for ensuring fair employment practices, highlighting the complexity of addressing discrimination based on criminal history.
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Reference: Vocational Programs in the Federal Bureau of Prisons
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Coppedge & Strong (2013) examine the potential of agricultural education programs for prisoners within the Federal Bureau of Prisons, arguing that such vocational programs are crucial for rehabilitation and reentry success.
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The authors present data on program participation rates, recidivism, and post-release employment, showing positive outcomes for participants in agricultural education programs.
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The analysis convincingly demonstrates the value of vocational training in rehabilitation efforts, suggesting that these programs can significantly contribute to reducing recidivism and aiding in the reintegration process.
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By focusing on the role of vocational education in prisoner rehabilitation, this article contributes to broader discussions on effective strategies for supporting individuals with criminal records, linking vocational training with successful community reintegration.
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