Visit LQOPAOCC.NET to view Tami links. 

“It's so different when you get a second chance to come back out and do your thing- you're more humble, you appreciate it more, you know what not to do this second time around.”

~Da Brat , American rapper

However, this belief is not reflected within our prison walls where individuals are seldom given a chance to prove they have changed. It is time for us to reform our sentencing policies and create a justice system that recognizes rehabilitation and education as significant factors in assessing people's readiness for reintegration into society.

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” ~Marian Wright Edelman, American civil rights activist

My mother has been incarcerated for 26 years. I am 30. I have lived over 90% of my life with her behind bars. Our current prison sentencing policies do not adequately consider an individual's progress or transformation during their time in prison. Despite an individual's efforts towards rehabilitation, People remain imprisoned with no consideration of growth. My mother is currently a graduate with her master's degree in business, alongside becoming the Founder and Captain of G Star Steppers, Step Team since 2016. She facilitates in the Nursery at Bedford Hills teaching horticulture to new mothers, showing them how to source fresh fruits and vegetables. This is only a fraction of who she is. 

“We build too many walls and not enough bridges.” ~Isaac Newton, English polymath 

Research shows that people who participate in correctional education programs have lower odds of returning to prison than those who do not. Our justice system does not factor in these achievements for people with life sentences.

This petition is for belief in Tami Eldridge receiving a second chance and supporting change that will allow rehabilitation to be recognized for my mother Tami Eldrige and give her a fair shot at freedom after demonstrating significant personal growth while incarcerated.