DURHAM, N.C. (November 25, 2024) — Southern Coalition for Social Justice (SCSJ) has released an updated copy of the Umar Muhammad Clean Slate toolkit, which helps individuals determine their expunction relief eligibility and the steps to remove charges and convictions from their records, making it possible for them to economically and socially better their lives.
Muhammad was a passionate advocate committed to helping people of color and those impacted by the criminal legal system. He joined SCSJ as a community organizer in 2014, where he fought against discrimination on behalf of justice-involved individuals. He was also a local leader for All of Us or None, an organization that lifts the voices of those impacted by mass incarceration and the prison-industrial complex.
“I would not be the person I am today without Umar Muhammad. He introduced me to the world of reentry, and his drive and passion have always inspired me,” said Sala Abdallah, community organizer and reentry specialist with SCSJ. “Every day, I have the opportunity to encourage others and, as Umar used to say, remind them that they are not the sum of their worst mistakes.”
The toolkit and a related explainer were released as part of SCSJ’s Reframing Public Safety Series, which explores, interrogates, lifts up, and shares policies and practices that increase public safety, strike the right balance between accountability and repair, and center dignity, stability, and justice for all.
Click here to read the Umar Muhammad Clean Slate Toolkit.
Click here to read the Clearing Criminal Records Improves Public Safety explainer.
The explainer provides information about how criminal records hinder opportunities for people reentering communities after incarceration and gives concrete examples of how North Carolina can expand clean slate laws. The state has slowly been expanding its clean slate laws, although it lags behind other states that have seen the benefits of a more robust expungement process. Clean slate laws have improved economic prosperity and quickly allowed people to secure jobs, housing, and essential services.
“The expansion of clean slate laws play a vital role in dismantling the obstacles faced by individuals reentering society, significantly increasing their opportunities for success and reintegration after incarceration,” said Tanita Holmes, Justice System Reform Counsel at SCSJ. “This toolkit offers essential resources and information for individuals dealing with the challenges of a criminal record, helping them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life.”
###
Southern Coalition for Social Justice, founded in 2007, partners with communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities in the South to defend and advance their political, social, and economic rights through the combination of legal advocacy, research, organizing, and communications. Learn more at southerncoalition.org and follow our work on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
