This Monday – Ford, Advocates to Recognize Formerly Incarcerated Independence Day Outside Cook County Jail

CHICAGO – State Rep. La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, will join community advocates Monday, July 3 at 11 a.m. outside the Cook County Jail to recognize Formerly Incarcerated Independence Day and to highlight the challenges and need to provide opportunities for those reentering society.

Attendees will gather at the fountain located at the intersection of S. California Blvd. and W. 26th St.

“Too often people who leave the prison system are looked down upon and treated as second-class citizens,” Ford said. “Particularly when poor policy encourages this behavior, barriers are created that lead to recidivism and an inability for a person to find the stability they need to move forward. If we want to build safer communities, we must also provide the necessary, meaningful support to help those looking to redefine themselves.”

Speakers at Monday’s rally will discuss re-entry success stories and recent legislative wins, as well as the work that still needs to be done to help reentering individuals achieve the full citizenship they deserve. Joining Ford will be representatives from:

• Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishments
• Giving Others Dreams
• Women’s Justice Institute
• Workers Center for Racial Justice
• Illinois Prison Project
• Illinois Alliance for Reentry and Justice
• Dream.Org

For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com.