Shackled in Freedom
By Advocator Courtenie Jackson
A criminal record should not permanently prevent someone from securing employment, supporting their family, and contributing to their community.
Shackled in Freedom exposes how employment systems continue to exclude qualified workers because of past criminal records. Through the stories shared, the film explores how fair hiring practices can address labor shortages, reduce recidivism, and create safer communities.
About the Issue
For many people with criminal records, the sentence does not end when they leave jail or prison. Employment barriers continue to limit access to stable work, economic mobility, and opportunity long after individuals have completed their sentences. The stakes—and the opportunities for reform—are significant:
Approximately 1.2 million people in Oklahoma have a criminal record and each year, 96,000 people are booked into jail. Turning the Page; The Prison Policy Initiative.
Nearly 75% of people who were formerly incarcerated are unemployed a year after being released. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
However, data shows that Oklahoma is in the middle of a worker shortage crisis. With more than 100,000 job openings, the state is having difficulty filling critical roles in healthcare, education, business, technology, and social services. Mid-America Christian University.
When people are given a fair chance at employment, families grow stronger, businesses benefit from valuable talent, and communities become safer.
Take Action
Communities benefit when returning citizens have real opportunities to work, provide for their families, and contribute to the economy.
-
Hire Courtenie to Support Your Work
Learn more about Courtenie’s work or hire Courtenie to speak on your next panel or at your next conference.
Host A Screening
Bring Shackled in Freedom to your campus, organization, coalition, faith community, conference, or community event to spark conversations about fair employment.
Screenings help communities challenge stigma, rethink how we respond to people with records, and build support for solutions that prioritize access to employment over perpetual punishment.
Interested in hosting a screening, panel, or community conversation potentially featuring Courtenie Jackson and local advocates?