Finding a job after serving time in prison is a struggle that many ex-felons face, even long after they’ve paid their dues. For those trying to reintegrate into society, the road to employment is often blocked by a combination of discrimination, lack of opportunity, and systemic barriers. Yet, in Connecticut, a powerful conversation is taking place, one that offers hope and insight into how ex-offenders can overcome these hurdles and build a better future for themselves.
On Monday, Governor Ned Lamont sat down with a group of young men from Stamford, all of whom have faced the challenge of finding steady work after incarceration. Their message was clear: they’re ready to work, but society isn’t always ready to give them a chance.
In this post, we’ll explore the key takeaways from Lamont’s conversation with these individuals, the challenges they face, and the workforce development programs that are striving to make a difference. Let’s dive into the importance of second chances, why employment opportunities for ex-felons matter, and how Connecticut is stepping up to help break the cycle of poverty and recidivism.
The Struggle to Find Employment After Incarceration
For many ex-felons, securing a stable job after being released from prison can feel like an uphill battle. It’s not just about having the right skills or qualifications—background checks and stigma often create barriers that are hard to overcome.
- Discrimination in Hiring: Many employers still have policies that automatically disqualify applicants with criminal records, regardless of the nature of the crime or how long ago it occurred.
- Lack of Job Opportunities: Despite Connecticut’s thriving economy, many areas face a shortage of entry-level positions that would be suitable for individuals re-entering the workforce.
- Insufficient Support: While some programs exist, many ex-offenders don’t have access to the training or resources needed to find meaningful employment.
This creates a vicious cycle where those who have already paid their debt to society struggle to get back on their feet. They want to work, but the system doesn’t always make it easy.
Gov. Lamont’s Approach: A Call to Action for Connecticut Employers
During his visit to Domus in Stamford, a youth and workforce development program, Governor Lamont listened intently to the stories of ex-felons who had been part of the DomusWorks initiative. The program helps young adults, aged 17-26, transition into the workforce after incarceration or a difficult upbringing.
One participant, Dayshaun Gomez, voiced the frustration many feel: “We already did our time, so why do we have to do our time once we’re free?”
Gomez’s question is simple but powerful—why should individuals who have served their sentences continue to be penalised after they’ve paid their debt to society? Lamont acknowledged the painful reality that too many ex-felons face:
- Unfair Treatment in Hiring: Employers often focus more on criminal history than on the skills or potential an individual brings to the job.
- Stigma and Stereotyping: Even after someone has turned their life around, they may still be judged based on their past.
Lamont’s message was clear: Connecticut needs to do more to help ex-felons reintegrate into society, both through policy reform and by encouraging businesses to provide more opportunities for second chances.
How the DomusWorks Program is Making a Difference
DomusWorks is one of the many workforce development initiatives that is striving to close the gap for individuals trying to rebuild their lives. For Charles Razor, another Domus participant, the program has been a lifeline. Razor shared how difficult it can be to get callbacks for jobs, despite putting in the effort.
“I’ve been working with Uber Eats and DoorDash, but it’s not easy,” Razor said. “We are trying. We all want better.”
DomusWorks focuses on offering training, mentoring, and support services to help these young people develop the skills they need to secure and maintain employment. Programs like this are crucial because they help ex-felons not only with job placement but with creating a path to personal growth and self-sufficiency.
Key Challenges: Housing and Transportation
While employment is the primary concern for many, other issues such as housing and transportation also play a significant role in the lives of ex-offenders trying to get back on track.
Scotty Bazile, a former member of DomusWorks, pointed out the rising cost of living in Connecticut, which makes it difficult for young people in the program to afford to stay in the state. He said, “It seems like we’re supposed to be born in this town, grow up in this town and move out as soon as we have the ability to.”
- Affordable Housing: Many young people struggle to find stable, affordable housing, which leads to instability in their employment prospects.
- Transportation Issues: Lack of reliable transportation can prevent individuals from getting to work, especially if they live in areas where public transport is limited.
Lamont acknowledged these challenges and committed to improving affordable housing options and transportation infrastructure to support people in vulnerable communities.
What’s Next for Connecticut’s Workforce Development?
Governor Lamont urged those in attendance to stay in Connecticut and keep working hard. The state needs their skills, and Lamont believes that with the right support, ex-felons can help drive Connecticut’s future. However, he also recognised that there’s still a lot of work to be done on both sides:
- State Support: The government must continue to invest in workforce development programs, affordable housing, and transportation options.
- Employer Action: Businesses need to give people with criminal records the opportunity to prove themselves by offering second chances.
Lamont’s final message was one of encouragement: “I can do a better job of getting a ladder here into Domus, but it’s up to you to climb.”
Conclusion: Moving Forward Together
The conversation that took place at Domus was a critical one. It brought attention to the ongoing struggles of ex-felons trying to reintegrate into society, but it also highlighted the solutions that can make a real difference. Through continued support from both the state and the business community, ex-offenders in Connecticut have a chance to build new lives, break the cycle of recidivism, and contribute to the state’s economy.
The road to recovery isn’t easy, but with workforce development initiatives, government commitment, and a change in attitudes from employers, Connecticut can become a model for helping ex-felons find jobs and build successful futures.
