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Jail and those incarcerated are often the topic of heavy political debate, with many actual political debates having this very topic up for discussion. Being "weak" on crime is often seen as a characteristic of an inferior candidate, and while there are some that do not deserve to be amongst society, most of those in county jail are not of that caliber. County jails house people who, while having committed an offense, are often in the early stages in their criminal journey and are more malleable to rehabilitation than those in state or federal prison. Petty crimes are what brought them there, but it should not mean the end of their life because of a mistake.
We cannot be called the "Land of Opportunity" when one action could determine the outcome of the next ten or more years, especially when our very justice system hinges on the ability and belief that everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their lives. Cuyahoga County, Ohio is a staunch believer in this idea and seeks to select a vendor to prepare those incarcerated in the county jail and CBCF for reintegration into the community by addressing their educational needs through individual and group basic education instruction. This help can be massive in preventing recidivism rates, and in doing so can go a long way in reducing crime rates and making the community safer. Oftentimes, crimes are perpetrated by repeat offenders and a significant reason that happens is because once in jail, they lack resources to grow their education, missing out on learning and preparation for real life, while also losing out on skills and knowledge that could help prepare them for jobs. We also do not know the circumstances that led them to commit crimes in the first place, and it is unfair to judge generally when everyone's path and reason for being there can vary vastly.
Some people argue that as long as criminals are off the streets, then the community is already a safer place. While that may be the case for a period of time, it can never be the permanent solution. Jails are already overcrowded, and keeping people in there brinks on the edge of inhumane treatment and is similar to sweeping the mess under the carpet. Besides, that idea goes against the just society the country is based on, and does nothing to fix the real problems that led them to make these mistakes in the first place. Attempting to keep these people in a permanent cycle of jail to freedom to jail is taxing on the body and the government, and can lead to a feeling of abandonment and hatred towards the government from inmates. It is also expensive. Upkeep of jails and court to determine sentences is an expensive process, and focusing on reentry into society can prevent the high costs associated with the court processes.
Instead of seeing those individuals as mistakes, the ethical side of humanity demands we see them through a lens of potential. It is the civic duty of the local government and people within to give these people the opportunity to reach that potential, especially when most are only there through systemic issues. Acknowledging their potential for a positive change reaffirms our own commitment to justice, and reinforces the responsibility to truly want what is best for the community. A large step to this goal is by educating and properly preparing those in county jail for real life. If interested in aiding Cuyahoga County in this task, click on the link to learn more. The bid closes September 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM EDT.
