Fair Chance Hiring
70 million Americans have a criminal history.
​
Individuals who have been formerly incarcerated face huge barriers to finding employment.
One study showed that, in a study of 51,500 people leaving prison in 2010, 65% were unemployed 4 years after their release. The same study found that, even when ex-offenders do manage to find employment within a year of release, they earn about half of what the average American does.​
What is fair chance hiring?
​
“Fair chance hiring” refers to the practice of employers hiring the best candidate for a position, regardless of past criminal conviction.
​
Fair chance hiring means employers refrain from asking about criminal history prior to interviewing a potential hire.
How can my organization benefit from fair chance hiring?
All businesses and communities benefit from fair chance hiring practices.
​
Employment following incarceration is the most influential factor in whether an individual will return to prison or jail.
​
Fair Chance Hiring Pledge
The Pledge
“We applaud the growing number of public and private sector organizations nationwide who are taking action to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to succeed, including individuals who have had contact with the criminal justice system. When almost 70 million Americans — nearly one in three adults — have a criminal record, it is important to remove unnecessary barriers that may prevent these individuals from gaining access to employment, training, education and other basic tools required for success in life.
We are committed to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals, a fair chance to participate in the American economy.”
​
