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(PRINCE GEORGE, MD – October 18, 2022) – Across the state, more and more activists are concerned and advocating for the re-enfranchisement of Marylanders with felonies, who are often Black people who are unfairly targeted by the racist incarceration system.
Today, Life After Release, a member of the Expand the Ballot Expand the Vote Coalition, held a press conference to raise awareness on this pressing issue and share a glimpse of the future we dream of for people with felony convictions in Maryland.
Up until 2007, Marylanders with felonies were permanently disenfranchised. Once they regained their voting rights, another major reform was passed in 2016 to re-enfranchise people on parole and probation. Still, those awaiting trial in local jails have the right to vote, but can’t due to barriers, such as access to casting their ballots and information about the election. The Coalition hopes to not only raise awareness, but to keep the movement going so all Marylanders have access to their rights.
Speakers included Josephine Mourning, President and Chairperson of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Prince George’s County Chapter, Linda Thornton-Thomas, President of the Prince George’s County Chapter of the NAACP, Hon. Monique Anderson-Walker, Former County Councilmember and Community Advocate, and Winter Williams, (Celeb) Love and Marriage DC Cast Member. Other speakers included Jade Mathis, Former Prince George’s County Assistant State’s Attorney (Post Trial Conviction Prosecutor and Back on Track) Currently known as the Expungement Guru, and (Celeb) Mathis Family Matters. (Daughter of Judge Greg Mathis).
The press conference was held at the Prince George’s County Board of Elections, 1100 Mercantile Lane, Suite 115A, Largo, MD 20774.
