If you or someone you know has been through the grind of the justice system and lived to tell the tale, there's an event on the horizon that might be of interest. Alderman DiAndre Jackson is hosting 'Pardon Me!', an event aimed at those who've faced incarceration, today at 6 p.m. at the Oak Barrel Public House, located at 1033 N. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. The event will feature Joshua Johnson, the founder of the national platform Pardon Me!, which showcases the narratives of justice-impacted individuals who've redefined their lives after prison.
In a City of Milwaukee news release, Alderman Jackson stated that this gathering would offer a chance for people to connect with resources, and hear Johnson's story – a man who, after a decade behind bars, went on to become a commendable state executive and received a full governor’s pardon. “Joshua Johnson’s journey shows what’s possible when individuals are given the support and opportunity to succeed,” Jackson said. The focus here is on opportunity and empowerment for those looking to reclaim their lives post-incarceration.
The program for the evening will include opportunities for attendees to engage in a Q&A session and snag a photo with Johnson himself. There will likely be anecdotes and discussions on his mission and the broader Pardon Me! movement. Expect also a chance to network with community members, influential leaders, and other individuals driving change, as noted in an official statement from the Milwaukee city government.
This Milwaukee stop is part of a larger commitment by Johnson to reach out to communities often sidelined, particularly those affected by incarceration. He's also moderating discussions at the Ezekiel HOPE Tools of the Trade event focused on apprenticeship, and workforce development strategies to engage all communities. “I’m using my voice to reshape the image of what success after incarceration looks like -- humanizing those who’ve been to prison and showing the world what true resilience and redemption really mean,” Mr. Johnson said, as noted by the City of Milwaukee.
