A Call for Second Chances: Clean Slate Champions Lead The Way

In a powerful show of support during Second Chance Month, Members of Congress joined our virtual gathering to spotlight the people, policies, and stories fueling a growing national effort: Clean Slate Champions: A Community Call for Second Chances. 

Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL), lead sponsor of the bipartisan Fresh Start Act, joined me for a live conversation about why second chances matter. With clarity and conviction, Rep. Lee underscored that automating the process to seal eligible arrest and conviction records is not a partisan issue; it’s a common-sense solution that unlocks opportunity and economic mobility. It’s one of those policies that can support individuals, communities, and the economy — all at once.

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (D-GA), co-sponsor of the Clean Slate Act, brought the message full circle in a welcome video, affirming her commitment to championing Clean Slate legislation in the upcoming Congress. Together, their voices framed the event with powerful bipartisan unity.

The evening unfolded into a dynamic exchange of personal stories and policy insights, all grounded in the belief that when people get a second chance, entire communities benefit.

A Movement Anchored in Community and Momentum

I opened the program by reflecting on CSI’s journey over the last five years, reminding attendees that the push to automate record sealing is not just about paperwork. It’s about restoring dignity, strengthening families, and fueling a more inclusive economy. 

I also had the opportunity to share some exciting breaking news with our attendees, as the Governor of North Dakota signed HB 1166, legislation that opens the door to second chances for more people with past records in North Dakota. 

Jason Cooper, CSI’s Vice President of State and Federal Campaigns, expanded on that vision with a snapshot of national momentum: states from coast to coast are already implementing Clean Slate policies, and efforts in D.C. are building steam, demonstrating that this isn’t an aspiration; it’s a reality we need to expand.

Technology + Policy = Scalable Solutions

The conversation then turned to how technology is helping turn policy into progress. Alia Toran-Burrell, Program Director at Code for America, joined Jason to highlight how modernizing and automating the record sealing process is a scalable solution that makes a real, tangible impact. Alia emphasized that while technology alone isn’t enough, when used with intention and equity, it becomes a force multiplier for justice.

Stories That Inspire and Mobilize

Personal stories brought that impact into sharp focus. Lucinda Cross, founder of Activate Worldwide, shared how her own experience as someone directly impacted by the legal system shaped her mission to empower others, specifically women and girls looking to move forward with their lives. She strives to bring a voice to the silent community that is being overlooked due to stigma. 

James Repenning, CEO of R&R Head Labs, offered a powerful example of what’s possible when sealed records open doors to employment and entrepreneurship. He reflected on his own realization that he, as an employer, was doing what so many do every day: failing to look past people’s records to see their true potential. He now works tirelessly to ensure that a past record won’t work against job seekers and employees in ways they might not even realize. These stories served as a reminder that second chances ripple outward, fueling opportunity, innovation, and community strength.

Kalabria Gilbert, CSI’s Marketing & Communication Strategist, hosted the event with warmth and energy, weaving together themes of hope, momentum, and shared purpose. From the fast-moving chat to the passionate testimonials, it was clear: this is a movement with heart, strategy, and staying power.

Why This Matters

Clean Slate Champions wasn’t just an event; it was a reminder of what’s possible when directly impacted voices are centered, innovation is embraced, and policymakers lead with courage and compassion. As we continue through Second Chance Month, let’s carry the energy of this community call forward, knowing that with every sealed record, we’re one step closer to a future rooted in redemption, opportunity, and justice.

Want to stay involved? Sign up for updates or follow The Clean Slate Initiative across social media to hear more from this growing movement.

Watch the event recording on our YouTube channel.