The effect can be traumatic."
The needs of former prisoners are growing.
Over10,000 ex-prisonersare released from Americas state and federal prisons every week.
Sabari Balaji M / Getty Images
Many more are let go from local jails.
And the coronavirus means that many prisons and jailsare accelerating the release of prisonersto try and prevent outbreaks.
“Individuals incarcerated only have limited access to Wi-Fi,” she said.
franckreporter / Getty Images
“The only internet access they get is through video visitation, email, and music players.”
Finding a job opening requires conducting online searches and/or accessing various websites and apps."
“Without communication access, they are cut off from family, friends, and support services.
Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
Access to the internet is so important that some nonprofits distribute smartphones to those recently released from prison.
Accessing a birth certificate online which is needed to apply for public assistance is a challenge, she added.
The pandemic is further marginalizing a group that is already struggling, Keim said.
How do you teach digital literacy remotely?”
“These folks used to go to public libraries for example to get online,” she added.
Shlosberg suggests offering tech training programs in correctional facilities.
Free cell phones are one step but more is needed.
While many major cities like New York have public hotspots, others, including Philadelphia, dont.
Hoskins says deeper changes are necessary.
“Education has been a key factor in lower recidivism rates,” she said.
The coronavirus has a way of sharpening our focus on societys inequities.
For those recently released from prison, true freedom might not come until they are equal digital citizens.
