Restorative Justice Advocates Prepare For National Expungement Week

People with convictions for minor cannabis offenses and other low-level crimes will have access to services to help them clear their records at free events scheduled to take place across the nation later this month. More than 40 events designed to provide legal aid and related services have been planned in over 30 cities during National Expungement Week (N.E.W.), taking place September 19 through 26.\

National Expungement Week began in 2018 as a way to offer legal aid to those adversely affected by the War on Drugs and the racial disparity prevalent in the enforcement of the nation’s drug laws. Today, the group’s work continues year-round in addition to the N.E.W. events scheduled annually, providing wrap-around services to those with a criminal record. Although restrictions on in-person events have been put in place in many places because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year will feature inaugural events in Kentucky, Missouri, and Florida.

In Los Angeles, N.E.W. events are being powered by a number of community organizations and partners, including The Social Impact Center, Social Equity LA, and the TransLatin@ Coalition. Felicia Carbajal, the executive director of The Social Impact Center, explained how having a criminal record for even a minor offense can affect one’s life.
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