Second Chances for a Stronger Workforce- Filmscreening and Panel

Description

Second Chances in Louisiana Louisiana continues to face a persistent labor shortage, with 55 available workers for every 100 open jobs, according to recent data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Although thousands of formerly incarcerated workers across the state have the skills and experiences to succeed on the job, the unemployment rate for formerly incarcerated people in Louisiana remains significantly higher than it is for the population at large. How can second chance hiring play a role in building a stronger economy throughout the state? While Louisiana has worked to shift policy and practice to support reentry in recent years, its approach to criminal justice is at an inflection point — one which may create new barriers to both economic opportunity and business growth. Building a more resilient, and inclusive, economy in the state depends on making the case that second-chance hiring isn’t just the right thing for society. It’s the smart thing for our economy too. Join business leaders, policy pros, and nonprofit professionals from across the state for a conversation about economic mobility for those impacted by incarceration and how we can build a resilient workforce in our state. Attendees will hear from Judge Arthur Hunter and a panel of experts who will share their perspective on why second chance hiring matters and what it will mean for our communities. The discussion will be accompanied by a screening of “Being Free,” a documentary produced by the award-winning filmmakers at Roadtrip Nation that shares the stories of three formerly incarcerated people navigating the path back to work. Light food and beverages will be provided.