Can you imagine how disappointing it would be to be a mother and be told that you don’t have a say in your child’s future? Just because you made a bad decision at some point in the past? Can you imagine being told that you have no right to be involved in decisions about your education, health, or overall well-being?
The right to vote gives me the opportunity to use my experience and voice to shape my child’s future, but many other Kentuckians don’t have that right because of past felonies. yeah.
The current law that deprives residents of the right to vote in Kentucky was enacted in 1891. Let’s take a moment and think about how different our lives are today. While progress has been made in areas such as civil rights and gender equality, no progress has been made in restoring the right to vote for all.
Kim George’s time in prison, release, and now (photo provided)
It is neither productive nor fair to exclude parents from voting rights that affect their children’s futures because of past mistakes. It is important to create a judgment-free environment where all parents are encouraged and supported to take an active part in their child’s future.
It is very important to teach children about the importance of forgiveness, second chances, and salvation. By restoring voting rights to people with past felony convictions after serving time in prison, we send a powerful message to young people that everyone deserves a chance to overcome their mistakes and make a new start. am sending.
Ultimately, by showing our children that mistakes don’t have to define the rest of their lives, we instill the values of forgiveness, understanding, and empathy. Restoring the right to vote is not only a matter of fairness and justice, but also a way to inspire hope and belief in the power of second chances in all individuals.
I may not have all the answers and I may not be perfect, but I am committed to learning and growing from my past mistakes. I believe in the power of forgiveness and second chances, and I want to show my kids that it’s never too late to make positive changes and better yourself. I believe all parents should have the opportunity to make good decisions and have their say at the polls.
I know this is hard for some to understand, but I am actually grateful for the lessons I have learned and the person they have helped shape me into the person I am today. I strive to use my experience and knowledge to empower and uplift those around me, especially those facing similar challenges. I want to inspire others to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.
Together, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone feels valued and supported. As Kentuckians, we value our freedoms, especially our right to vote. This shapes our lives. However, some people who commit felonies permanently lose this right, negatively impacting our communities.
We all make mistakes, but no one should pay the price with their life. Let’s help our fellow Kentuckians regain their right to vote and build a better state for everyone.
Kim George is a Paducah resident, former nurse, mother, in long-term recovery, and formerly incarcerated. She was given the opportunity to rebuild her life and her voting rights were also restored pursuant to Governor Beshear’s 2019 executive order. Now, she is a voice for people who, like her, deserve a chance to get things right.
