Narrative Change

Our Federal Legislative Director, Reginald Darby, shares his reflections on leadership, partnership, and public safety from a week of learning and connection at NOBLE's 50th Annual Training Conference.

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Originally published in the 2026 State of Black America®, this essay by our CEO explores how arrest and conviction records limit economic opportunity for Black Americans—and how Clean Slate can help expand access to second chances.

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Most people think of an arrest or conviction record as the result of serious crimes — but in reality, even small, everyday mistakes can snowball into lifelong punishment. Learn more in this collaborative contribution from Erik Altieri, CSI, and Heather Canuel, a Directly Impacted organizer.

Record relief is making headlines across the country as discussions around second chances take center stage. With terms like pardon, clemency, expungement, and Clean Slate frequently appearing in the media, it’s more important than ever to understand the key differences between them. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.

Republican lawmakers have a unique opportunity in 2025: They can build the momentum of Clean Slate by championing the legislation at the state and federal levels, and play a leading role in unlocking opportunities for millions of Americans, boosting our economy, and making our communities safer. Learn more in this contributed update from Jason Pye, Vice President at Due Process Institute.

How can we bring conversations about Clean Slate to life in a way that resonates with family and friends? It’s all about connection and shared values. Learn more in this update from Morgan Kelly, Senior Marketing & Communications Strategist.

Clean Slate laws embody hope and second chances, and CSI’s Storyteller Series includes stories of people who have received a Clean Slate. Learn more in this update from Stacey Ferguson, VP of Marketing & Communications.

Forgiveness and generosity aren’t just Thanksgiving principles. For many people, they’re core values — that’s one of the reasons support for Clean Slate has gained so much momentum: People believe in the power of redemption. Learn more in this update from Sheena Meade, CEO. Learn more in this update from Sheena Meade, CEO.

As part of our “Changing the Narrative” campaign, we produced a Clean Slate Public Service Announcement, titled “For The Record,” that illustrates one of the core principles of our work: “People should not be defined by their records.” Learn more in this update from Stacey Ferguson, VP of Marketing & Communications.