LETTER: An unjust law passed in Georgia

I was always taught from childhood that America stood for liberty and justice for all. How can this be so? I understand that breaking laws can and will end with extreme consequences. For example, consequences include first loss of freedom and then loss of rights.

The individual is punished for his or her crimes but also has a right to redeem himself or herself by taking classes and courses and hopefully learning a trade.

The State of Georgia mandates that all inmates attend various classes to prepare one to readjust their lives and one of those classes is given by the Department of Social Services.

Two or three individuals would come and tell the inmates about all the public assistance they may receive. Not once have I ever heard one of them say, “If you have ever been convicted of a felony drug possession, this class does not apply to you.”

There are several parables in the Bible on redemption and forgiveness. For example, John Chapter 8, Verse 11 talks about a woman about to be stones for her sins. Jesus said, “Who that is without sin cast the first stone.”

No one was left but Jesus and the accused woman.

Jesus gave the woman a second chance at life saying, “Neither do I condemn thee, go and sin no more.”

I am a very strong believer in second chances. America is a place where dreams come true and people from all over the world come here for a better life.

Now, I am in no way shape or form trying to say that all people have learned their lessons. If that were the case it would be a perfect place to live. Like people say, “A few bad apples ruin the whole bunch.”

I just feel that this law is wrong. Other crimes such as car theft, shoplifting, burglary, federal crimes, fraud, forgeries, embezzlement, white collar crimes, armed robbery, murder, rape, child molestation, bank robbery and etc. are often related to drugs.

I would say that 70 percent of the women in state facilities are there because of drugs.

These are hard times for even the most honest of individuals. There are many more like me who will need help in rebuilding their lives. Public assistance is needed for all those who come from prison needing to better themselves. Maybe one day this law will be lifted so the transition to living an honest and free life with second chances can come true for all.

Sincerely,
Christina Martin
Winder