Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson, Mayor’s Office of Reentry Kick Off Second Chance Month
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Mayor's Office of Reentry have announced the start of Second Chance Month, an annual observance dedicated to supporting individuals who have been impacted by the justice system. This month-long event aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by those navigating reentry and to promote opportunities for a successful transition back into society.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of providing real second chances for individuals returning home from incarceration. He stated, "Our responsibility as a City doesn't end when someone returns home, it begins with how we welcome them back into our communities." The Mayor also highlighted the need to break down barriers to housing, employment, and healthcare for returning residents.

Joseph Mapp, Director of the Office of Reentry, echoed this sentiment by stating that second chances in Chicago often take the form of individuals rebuilding their lives and finding stability in their communities. He emphasized that when returning residents have access to housing, employment, and healing resources, it not only changes their individual outcomes but also strengthens entire neighborhoods.

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Second Chance Month brings together various stakeholders such as local government officials, community leaders, advocates, employers, and system-impacted individuals. Through meaningful dialogue and action, this event aims to expand critical opportunities for all.

Mary H., an Alumni Case Worker at Chicago Cred who has personally experienced reentry after incarceration, shared her story as proof that being justice-impacted does not mean one's opportunities are over. She stated that with the right support and belief in people's potential, individuals can rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

The Mayor's Office of Reentry has organized several events throughout April to celebrate Second Chance Month. These events include a workshop on supporting system-impacted business owners hosted by the Treasurer's Office on April 2nd at VietFive Coffee; a toolkit launch and resource fair hosted by Final 5 Campaign + Circles and Ciphers on April 10th at 1643 N. Milwaukee Ave; the Cook County Jail Frederick Douglass Project for Justice on April 17th at 2700 S. California Ave; and a reentry convening on April 30th at Hope Center Foundation.

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Mayor Johnson has been a strong advocate for reentry and has made it a priority to support individuals returning home from incarceration. In 2024, he re-established and re-built the Office of Reentry, marking the City's first fully-resourced commitment to this cause. The Office's Year One Report outlines the progress made in shaping reentry policy and programming under the Johnson administration.

For more information about Second Chance Month events and resources, visit chicago.gov/reentry. This month-long observance serves as a reminder that everyone deserves a second chance and that with support and opportunities, individuals can successfully reintegrate into society.

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