Many Americans have criminal records, which can make it really tough to find a job or a place to live. It’s a big obstacle, but there are ways to get past it. With the right plan and knowing about the help that’s out there, people can still build a stable life for themselves.
The Weight of a Past
About 70 million people in the United States have a criminal record, according to the National Employment Law Project. This makes it really hard for them to find a job. Lots of employers do background checks, and having a criminal record can mean they won’t hire you, even if the offense was minor or happened a long time ago. Finding a place to live can be just as tough. Even though the Fair Housing Act protects against discrimination based on race, religion, or disability, it’s not so clear when it comes to criminal records, leaving people at risk of being turned down for housing.
Employment: Facing the Screening Process
Looking for a job with a criminal record can feel really discouraging. A lot of job applications have that tough question: “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?” Some places have “ban the box” laws that stop employers from asking this question right away, but they’ll probably do a background check later on.
Being honest about your record is really important. When you’re asked about it, a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis recommends that you be upfront about it and tell the truth. Explain what happened and talk about the steps you’ve taken to turn things around. Focus on what you’ve learned from the experience and how it’s made you a better person.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) says employers can’t discriminate based on a criminal record if it doesn’t really matter for the job or if it doesn’t make things unsafe. If you think a company has treated you unfairly because of your record, you can complain to the EEOC. But the process can take a long time and be kind of tricky.
When you’re looking for a job, it helps to be smart about it. Check out industries where they might not be so picky about background checks, like construction, hotels, or skilled trades. Look for companies that have Fair Chance programs, where they care more about your skills and experience than what’s on your record.
Put your skills and experience front and center. Make a resume that really shows off what you can do and what you’ve achieved. Talk about your ability to work hard, be dependable, and solve problems. Use informational interviews to connect with people in your field and find out more about different companies and what they’re like to work for.
Re-entry programs and job training can be a big help. They can teach you new skills and give you certifications that make you stand out. Being part of these programs shows you’re serious about growing and turning things around.
Housing: Finding a Place to Call Home
The Fair Housing Act is there to stop discrimination based on things like race or religion, but when it comes to criminal records, it’s a bit more complicated. Landlords can think about your criminal history, especially if it’s got something to do with renting or if it might be a safety problem.
When you’re trying to get a place to live, it’s best to be honest about your record. Explain what happened and talk about how you’re trying to make things better. Giving the landlord stuff like recommendation letters, proof that you’ve got a job, or certificates from programs you’ve done can help show that you’re a good tenant, even with a record.
It can be tough to find landlords who are okay renting to people with records. Look into different housing options and find landlords who have rented to folks in similar situations before. Transitional housing programs are a good option too – they’re made to help people who are getting back into regular life.
Fair housing groups and legal aid can be a big help. They know all about housing laws and can stand up for your rights. Plus, they can help you find places to live that are a good fit.
Searching for a job or housing with a criminal record can feel really tough, and it’s easy to get frustrated. But it’s important to stay positive and keep going. Use all the help you can find, reach out to people you know, and don’t give up. If you keep at it and stay committed to making things better, it’ll pay off in the end.
Your record doesn’t define you. Focus on what you’re good at, show that you’re working to make things right, and use all the help you can get. There are employers and landlords out there who understand that everyone deserves a second chance. With hard work and determination, you can find a job you love and a place to live that feels like home.