The Right to Vote: A Lifeline for Incarcerated and Returning Citizens

The impact of incarceration on Black men in America is far-reaching. Disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system, Black men face systemic barriers that extend beyond prison walls, affecting their families, communities and futures. In Washington, DC, where the majority of returning citizens are Black men, the right to vote and access to comprehensive reentry support are crucial for breaking the cycle of recidivism and fostering empowerment.

In the heart of our nation’s capital, a beacon of hope shines brightly for incarcerated and returning citizens. Washington, DC, stands almost alone in its stance, allowing not just formerly incarcerated individuals but also those currently incarcerated to exercise their right to vote. As a returning citizen and the Executive Director of the DC Mayor’s Office of Returning Citizens Affairs (MORCA), I have seen firsthand the transformative power of this policy.

Historically, the disenfranchisement of Black Americans has been a tool of oppression, silencing voices and stripping away power. Today, approximately 5.2 million people across the United States are denied the right to vote due to felony convictions. This staggering number reflects a broader systemic issue that disproportionately affects Black and Brown communities.

However, in DC, every citizen, regardless of their current circumstances, retains the fundamental right to vote. This policy is not just a legal stipulation; it is a profound statement about the value and dignity of every individual. It acknowledges that our voices matter and that our contributions to society do not end when we are incarcerated.

My journey mirrors the struggles and triumphs of many returning citizens. At 16, I was charged as an adult and incarcerated. It was during my time in prison that I began to see education and self-improvement as paths to redemption. I earned my GED and started writing books. When I was released, I faced the immense challenge of rebuilding my life as a felon. But I persevered, overcoming every limitation placed before me. And, I have dedicated myself to closing the gaps for our returning citizen population. At MORCA, we work tirelessly on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser to remove barriers to reentry, ensuring that formerly incarcerated individuals are connected to essential programs and services in the District. Our mission is to empower residents to break the cycle of recidivism and build successful, fulfilling lives.

The right to vote is a critical component of this empowerment. When incarcerated individuals are allowed to vote, they are reminded that they are still part of the community and that their opinions matter. This connection to civic life can be a powerful motivator for positive change and reintegration. The inclusion of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals in the voting process enriches our democracy. It brings diverse perspectives to the forefront, ensuring that the needs and concerns of some of the most marginalized members of our society are heard and addressed. 

Beyond the ballot box, returning citizens face significant challenges as they reintegrate into society. In D.C., efforts to restore returning citizens’ rights extend to critical areas such as housing and employment. The Fair Housing Act and local regulations prohibit discrimination based on criminal history. Employment is similarly impacted by D.C.'s "Ban the Box" laws, which limit when employers can inquire about criminal histories, typically only after a conditional job offer. The city supports reentry with various programs designed to help returning citizens secure jobs. These measures are essential for ensuring that returning citizens fully re-engage with society.

The importance of the Black vote cannot be overstated. Historically, Black Americans have fought tirelessly for the right to vote, facing tremendous obstacles and systemic barriers. Ensuring that incarcerated and formerly incarcerated Black men can vote is a continuation of this struggle for equality and justice. It is a way to honor the legacy of those who have fought before us and to ensure that our voices continue to shape the future.

I believe that informed citizens are empowered citizens. By providing education and resources, we help ensure that our community members can exercise their rights fully and confidently. Men and women who once felt discarded by society are now voting, participating in civic life, and advocating for the rights of others. These are individuals who have turned their lives around and are now contributing positively to their communities.

Our democracy is stronger when every voice is heard. The right to vote is fundamental, not only for those of us living free but also for those who are incarcerated and returning citizens. In Washington, DC, we are setting an example for the nation by recognizing and restoring these rights. However, the journey doesn't end here. By supporting policies that provide comprehensive resources in employment, education, housing, and healthcare, we can empower returning citizens to reintegrate successfully and reduce recidivism. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in our democracy and contribute positively to our communities.

Written by: Lamont Carey, Executive Director, Mayor’s Office of Returning Citizens Affairs (MORCA)