Brockton Banner readers share CORI concerns
We work and live in Brockton, Mass. We are writing because we are concerned that current CORI laws allow for inaccurate information to be sent out, are difficult to read, rely on dismissed cases and continue to punish individuals long after their court-imposed sentences have been completed.
We believe that the CORI system should be changed in order to allow people with CORI records access to appropriate employment. Employers should not see non-conviction CORI data. We are concerned about this issue because even though some people were never convicted of a crime, they are having a hard time getting a job because of their CORI.
We would like to get the Brockton area more involved in this issue. We would like this information to get out to the churches in the area and the community at-large.
We have been attending meetings of the Criminal Justice Policy Coalition (S.M.A.R.T.), which are held the second Thursday of the month at 3 Main Street (CCB Meeting Room).
We as a family would like to see more people coming out to these meetings, because this issue has impacted our family recently. There have to be more people getting involved for this reform to become a reality in part, if not in its entirety.
Thomas D. Adams & Rachel Cherry-Adams
Brockton
Building a community legacy
In this country, much is made of individual achievements. We as a people oftentimes forget, or fail to remember, those that were denied as they tried to be better and do better. Today, we are quick to say, “I did this” and “I did that.” No recognition is given to the shoulders that you are standing on.
Our elders can no longer take a stroll in the day or the night without fear. When they do walk, they hear the foulest language coming out of the mouths of not just males, but young females as well. With surprised looks on their faces, the elders drop their eyes from contact in fear of being challenged and called a bunch of dirty names. These youth had to hear it in their homes.
What about giving them a book to read? As a matter of fact, when you give them a book, read and discuss it with them and turn that television off.
Wanting to be a great individual is not enough today for our community’s positive development. Make your shoulders broad and strong enough for your descendants to be able to stand on and appreciate the legacy.
Haywood Fennell Sr.
Roxbury
