WHEREAS, every person is entitled to the inalienable right of being treated with dignity and compassion, and those who have stumbled should be given the opportunity to become contributing members of our Great State once again; and
WHEREAS, approximately 70 million Americans have a criminal record, with 4,400 individuals incarcerated and 3,400 individuals on probation and parole in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, the number of legal collateral consequences of a criminal conviction nearly reaches 44,000, including 590 specific to Alaska, and these barriers can contribute to recidivism, which increases victimization and decreases public safety; and
WHEREAS, reentering society after incarceration can be a daunting transition with significant barriers such as disadvantages finding housing and gainful employment and difficulty rebuilding trust and relationships with family and friends; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska Department of Corrections provides collaborative release planning including individualized case management, programming, and positive family, community, and peer support services to assist those reentering society and reduce the likelihood of reoffending; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to a proactive reentry process that supports individuals transitioning out of incarceration, as helping former inmates reenter society with valuable skills and available support networks increases public safety and reduces recidivism rates.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim April 2024 as:
Second Chance Month
in Alaska and urge all Alaskans to recognize the need for closure for those who have paid their debt, to commend those who have successfully reentered society, and for individuals, employers, congregations, and communities to extend second chances to former inmates.
Dated: April 1, 2024
