Public radio from Western Michigan University 102.1 NPR News | 89.9 Classical WMUK
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Group Brings Message on Hiring "Ex-Offenders" to City Commission

Sehvilla Mann
/
WMUK

It’s not on the agenda yet, but the Kalamazoo City Commission seems willing to explore a proposal that’s intended to help people with criminal records find jobs.

Members of the grassroots group Michigan United told the board on Monday that Kalamazoo can do something to help so-called ex-offenders find employment to support themselves and their families.

The idea is to require businesses that get tax breaks from the city to give job applicants an interview before looking into their backgrounds, so they won’t prejudge worthy candidates.

It’s an idea that many on the board embraced Monday night, including Commissioner Erin Knott, who has a minor criminal record.

“I too remember the days before I had to check the box. And I know all too well the fear and anxiety that goes into looking for a job knowing that you have to check that box,” she says.

Commissioner Shannon Sykes says the proposal makes her think of the struggles family members have experienced.

“I have a brother who I have since lost who spent some time in prison and came home and was never, ever the same,” she says.

“I have another brother who attempted to change his life and go from criminal activity to, you know, living, we would say ‘legitly.’ And ran out of patience, and committed suicide just over a year ago.

“This individual was one of the most important people in my life,” Sykes added. “And so I say that to say that I think it is fair that everybody in this room has run out of patience. Because these are real lives being affected.”

Western Michigan University student Katryce Brown told commissioners she’s worked with so-called ex-offenders. Brown says it’s important to get to know people beyond that label.

“They have real names like you and I. They have families and children just like you and I and they have dreams of being able one day to support those families and children,” she says.

The city excludes the criminal-background question from its own job applications. Supporters of a policy for tax-abatement recipients want to see it on the city’s agenda in April. But City Attorney Clyde Robinson says May is more likely, as that would give the city time to write a legally sound proposal.

You can stay in touch with WMUK news on FacebookTwitter,and by signing up for our eNewsletter.

Sehvilla Mann joined WMUK’s news team in 2014 as a reporter on the local government and education beats. She covered those topics and more in eight years of reporting for the Station, before becoming news director in 2022.
Related Content