IMPRISONED BEYOND BARS: Ex-Offenders Blacklisted and Banned

Discrimination is a given in our society and the world. Being denied rights because of "race", ethnicity, religion, sex, or sexual orientation is a constant reality.  The fight is a daily battle for many.  However, there are those who face another, or in some cases, additional discrimination based on the fact that they have commited a crime even though they have served their time.  Most find it difficult, if not impossible, to find employment or housing after they have left prison.  This ultimately puts the ex-offender in a stressful position and many times forced to return to illegal activity to support him/herself.  Although there are many programs to help ex-offenders enter the job market it is ultimately employers who refuse to take the next step to hire.

This issue is rarely discussed and I am happy to have a gentleman, we'll call "Mr. G" share his experience. Born and raised in Chicago, his troubles began when he moved to New York City when he was exposed to the "fast lane" as he put it. Unable to cope he got caught up in a lifestyle and ended up in prison. Though he is on a spiritual path, like so many ex-offenders he is finding it hard to find work and housing due to his past.

Happy to report that my guest has just found a job and will have begun work by the time of this broadcast.