He says the people connected to EXPO were heavily instrumental in his successful journey to reentering society. While the organization is primarily focused on policy change within the correctional system, its members carry vast knowledge of local service providers who can assist with transitioning from prison. “I was with them from day one. By week three, I was in Madison with a microphone in my hand, standing in front of the capital, and talking about my experience.”While his family gave him the foundational support to transition from prison, “EXPO and its affiliates were that moral and technical support to help me navigate through all of it. If it wasn’t for all of them, I don’t know where I’d be.” For Fields, EXPO has been part peer support and part civic engagement. “EXPO is about tearing down those stigmas that exist from making poor choices in the past. We point out that felonies and convictions can be life sentences for most people. EXPO has allowed me to live my life out loud and do so with other like- minded individuals.” As a community organizer, Fields helps people who were recently released from prison gain the connections and support they need to successfully reintegrate into society. He also works to encourage changes to policies that can significantly affect their progress. “When someone comes out of prison, whether on probation or not, the right to vote shouldn’t be revoked. If they’re in the community, working, and paying taxes, they should have a say in where their taxes are going and the leaders who will represent them.” Fields assists with training on building productive social relationships as well as how to function in ways that are different from their past situations. “We’re an advocacy group trying to change the rules and unpack and ultimately undo systemic oppression.” technical support
He believes his work is bringing a restorative framework to the
Wisconsin correctional system and the lives of those transitioning from it.
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