Identifying with the Incarcerated One

Each year since 2019, Faith and Law has welcomed Prison Fellowship to Capitol Hill in April for Second Chances Month. Prison Fellowship is the nation’s largest Christian nonprofit serving prisoners, former prisoners, and their families. This April, 50 Prison Fellowship employees, justice ambassadors and faith leaders, including 18 formerly incarcerated individuals, will visit more than 40 congressional offices on Capitol Hill to encourage lawmakers to support the Second Chance Month Resolution.  

Last Friday, Hill staff enjoyed the screening of the compelling new documentary entitled, A New Day 1; The Journey Begins. The film follows the journeys of three returning citizens who face the challenges of reintegration after incarceration. Despite having strong support systems, they encounter significant barriers in employment and housing, highlighting the harsh reality of the “second prison.” When Alona, a single mother happily reunited with her three children, was overcome by difficulties and returned to prison for 20 years, the room fell silent.

We all had been rooting for her.

Following the screening, Sammy Perez, Prison Fellowship’s Senior Director of Grassroots and Reintegration, was peppered with questions about recidivism and reentry. He discussed the need for legislation to reduce unnecessary barriers without sacrificing public safety. 

“When you called Jesus the Incarcerated One, I really had to think about that,” said one attendee. “My brother is in prison.”

Thank you, Prison Fellowship, for reminding us of the power of redemption and the importance of giving our neighbors second chances to reenter society and pursue productive lives.