I am writing this petition not as a criminal, but as a grieving brother who has just lost his dear sister to stage four cancer. My sister, a resident of Chicago, Illinois, has just succumbed to this unforgiving disease... leaving a void that may never be completely healed. What complicates the pain further is that I am currently placed in a work-release program, and without special considerations, I am not allowed the privilege of saying my final goodbyes.

However, everyone deserves the right to grieve and pay their last respects to their loved ones; a right which should not be denied based on one's current circumstances. The Department of Justice bares the responsibility of ensuring both the administration of justice and upholding basic human rights. According to their mission, they claim to "ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans". Yet, a situation as crucial as this begs the question - does the system truly cater to "all Americans", or does it marginalize those who have made past mistakes?

This issue is not just pertaining to my situation. It is a reflection of a systemic problem, where over 4.5 million people are on probation or parole in the United States (source: Bureau of Justice Statistics). Each of these individuals, like all humans, will face personal losses, yet their capacity to mourn is curtailed by rigid rules. Compassion and empathy are fundamental tenets of a just legal system.

Please sign this petition to advocate for a temporary leave for individuals in work release programs dealing with personal loss. This simple act can help ensure that everyone, regardless of their past mistakes, can say their proper goodbyes to their loved ones. Please sign and make this important change, where compassion meets justice, a reality.