A Road to Nowhere: Prisoner Re-Entry into Society?
Chamia Pinckney
The United States has a significant percentage of individuals behind bars. Most people who are incarcerated will eventually be released back into society. This paper explains the reentry process for previously incarcerated individuals and how it creates long term challenges and stigmas for ex-convicts in society. Ex-convicts are forced to carry their past baggage for the rest of their life. It is important that we research the reentry process because society should assist individuals who have been incarcerated and want to create a better life. However, evidence proves that once individuals are released, they face tremendous obstacles with the stigma of being an ex-con. Additionally, studies show that this group generally experience recidivism. This paper argues that society must recognize the difficulties they encounter daily. More specifically it addresses the difficulties ex-cons experience when trying to find employment. These difficulties also impact access to resources and opportunities in other social institutions.
Chamia Pinckney graduated from AC Flora High School in Columbia, South Carolina. She is currently a senior studying sociology and minoring in human services. Her experiences include working as a Student Support Ambassador on campus and interning at the South Carolina Department of Corrections and Community Initiatives.
