Call former prisoners ‘returning citizens’ to promote reintegration – Crime Check Foundation
The Executive Director of Crime Check Foundation, Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, has called for people released from prison to be described as ‘returning citizens’ rather than ‘ex-convicts’ to promote their reintegration into society.
The Crime Check Foundation, led by Executive Director Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, has urged society to stop using the term "ex-convict" to describe individuals who have been released from prison. Instead, Kwarteng advocates for the term "returning citizens." He argues that the word "ex-convict" is laden with negative connotations, which can result in discrimination and rejection for former prisoners.
This makes it challenging for them to reintegrate into society after serving their time. During a recent visit to a prison in the United States, Kwarteng observed firsthand the need to rethink how we refer to people who have spent time in prison. He emphasizes that the phrase "returning citizens" is a more positive and welcoming alternative that acknowledges individuals are re-entering society.
By using this terminology, we can foster a more supportive environment for those who have completed their sentences and help them rebuild their lives. The Crime Check Foundation is pushing for the use of "returning citizens" in Ghana to promote acceptance and reduce the stigma often associated with formerly incarcerated individuals.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
