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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION DECLARING THE MONTH OF APRIL SECOND CHANCE MONTH IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, statistics proves that nearly 1 in 3 American adults have criminal records, which can have serious effects on the livelihood of individuals seeking housing, careers, educational and other daily incentives necessary for people to live. Some refer to these impacts as negative connotations to changed human beings; and;
WHEREAS, the United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world accounting for more than 20% of the world's prison population, despite the United States only making up roughly 5% of the global population; and
WHEREAS, there are currently about 40,000 plus collateral consequences that impact Americans with criminal records making it significantly difficult for these Americans to reintegrate back into their communities; and;
WHEREAS, the re-entry period is a critical time where both risk and protective factors can impact outcomes for returning residents who greatly benefit from support, services, and a second chance as they navigate the challenges of returning from incarceration; and:
WHEREAS, Cook County is truly passionate about human rights and believes that every individual in the county of Cook is endowed and treasured with human dignity, respect, and love. Cook County is committed to providing formerly incarcerated residents the support they deserve, and;
WHEREAS, the month of April being dedicated as Second Chance Month emboldens and reinforces the creation of new, bold, innovative, and equitable opportunities for those individuals who have already served their prison time to re-enter into society as positive, resourceful, and beneficial contributors to the community; and;
WHEREAS, The Second Chance Act of 2007 provides program services in the following areas:
* State and Local Reentry Demonstration Projects
* State and Local Reentry Courts
* Prosecution Drug Treatment Alternatives to Prison
* Family-Based Substance...
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