In Roy's experience, formerly incarcerated people mostly get jobs that are physically demanding and underpaid. Using Honest Jobs, he found a job what he likes and where he feels valued. Hear him tell his story in the video below:
Interview Transcript:
What experience do you have with the criminal justice system?
Roy: “I’ve been to prison, I’ve been arrested a few more times after prison. It's a lot of people that serve their time and just want to continue their life, and move forward. But due to the system, they make it very complicated. They just want to make an honest living and be able to live a decent life and provide for their families. And I don't think because you made a mistake, they should be able to hinder you for the rest of your life. And I think a lot of times people get out of their situation with the mindset “Well, I'm gonna change my life. I want to do better”. But you run into all these hurdles because of something that's in your past. And eventually it leads you back to what you know, unfortunately. But in my opinion, that shouldn't be such a big deal. I think everybody deserves a chance, especially when you paid your debt. I don't think you should continue to be persecuted. We all make mistakes.”
What was your experience looking for a job before you found Honest Jobs?
Roy: “After you serve your time, it shouldn't be able to hinder your future for not being able to apply or get certain jobs because of your past. I’ve been fortunate to find jobs, but the pay is really low. People tend to say “Well if you are a convicted felon, you gotta accept whatever you get”. And the work is overworking and vastly underpaid.”
What was your experience looking for a job after you found Honest Jobs?
Roy: “It was pretty expeditious. It was pretty fast. I mean, and you guys were great. I was reassured, it was great. I appreciate it.”
Tell us about your new job!
Roy: “The pay is good. I think like $20-$21 an hour. I didn't expect it. It’s a lot of opportunity for growth in this company.”
Do you have a message to employers?
Roy: “Give them a chance. I mean, people that's been incarcerated, everybody deserves a chance. Because life goes on. If you can't sustain your life, you eventually fall back into what you know. We got to break the recidivism. And what I mean by breaking the recidivism, is to give people a chance to prove themselves.”