“In Their Shoes” Project BLOG POST #2 Seeking Out Multiple Stories – “In Their Voices”

Jordan Cochrum- Microculture Blog Post 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SxzcgxTBTE

This is Lamont, he served 8 years in prison for armed robbery. This video covers his life after prison and the struggles he's faced in society. Stereotypes of ex-convicts have affected Lamont greatly. In the video, you will find that finding a job is one of the biggest things Lamont struggles achieve. I believe Lamont made this video for two reasons. First, to show the consequences that come with a criminal record, and second, to give convicts a sense of hope that even though things will get tough, there is a light at the end of tunnel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=55&v=AINlt4NrzYk

This video follows John Maddox and Conan Ordiway. Each are ex-convicts and are interviewed while at a tattoo business in West Texas that removes regretful tattoos for a very low price. Maddox talks about how the outside world sees him as negative with his tattoos. In addition, Ordiway states  that when looking for a job, employers may see convicts as "trash, and don't want to hire them." These stereotypes make it very challenging for ex convicts to find work and feel a sense of belonging in the outside word. I think the micro culture wants those watching to understand that on top of a criminal record, what we put on our bodies can carry just as much weight in terms of discrimination. I also think the video was created for the outside world to see that there are convicts out there who are trying to change and just need a chance.

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/04/04/472878724/denying-housing-over-criminal-record-may-be-discrimination-feds-say

Above is a link to an article that discusses the challenges criminals face when trying to find housing. Starting at the paragraph titled "When a Criminal Past Closes Doors," we meet Melvin Lofton who in his 20's was sent to prison for burglary. Now in his 50's, Lofton shares about the time when he tried to rent a trailer home, was accepted, and then soon after was asked about his criminal record. He never heard from the landlord again. The stereotypes of ex felons in this case can carry a lot of negative weight when finding housing. Currently, landlords are allowed to decline housing to ex convicts and I believe Lofton participated in this article to create awareness about how this discrimination can make it hard for an ex convict to fully get back on their feet.