We are a community. A community that includes people required to register, their families and those who support them.
Some members of the community never committed a sex offense but pled guilty anyway. Some members of the community have been convicted of a non-violent, non-contact offense. And some members of the community have been convicted of heinous acts and designated as sexually violent predators.
Although members of the community appear to be different, we are fundamentally the same because we all know that the registration system is broken and does not serve the purpose of increasing public safety. We all know that registration is punishment regardless of statements made in decisions issued by courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
The question is how do we weather this storm? Do we ride out the storm as individuals who care only about their own well-being? Or do we ride out the storm as members of a community that care about each and every member of that community?
I have chosen to weather this storm as a member of the community that cares about each and every member of the community. And I invite you to join me.
There are many ways to show you care such as showing up at the July 2 hearing to stop Senate Bill 1128 that could add up to 32,000 people to the registry. You can also show you care by making eight phone calls to members of the committee that will consider that bill. I made those calls and it took less than 10 minutes. You can also show you care by making a donation to ACSOL.
What will you get in return for showing you care? ACSOL will thank you and others may embrace you figuratively or literally depending upon your level of comfort.
The greatest gift you will receive, however, is the knowledge that you are empowered and able to help others. It’s time to show you care.
I have written letters, called all Public Safety Co.mittee Members and will be at the meeting to Stand Up and say vote No. What is everyone else doing?
I made my calls and wrote my letter online.
Are you too busy to fight back? Together we stand, fragmented we fall. Please be willing to take a few minutes to fight even for issues that may not directly affect you. After all, don’t you want others to help you on your specific issues?
Thanks Janice for the reminder. This is the first time I have made phone calls. It was easy. I indicated I was a member of ASCOL and we strongly appose the Senate Bill 1128. I mentioned my name and zip code. I also left my phone number in a few instances. Each of them said that my no vote would be noted and the staff person was took the call was very pleasant. I intend to be at the hearing as well… I have never done that either. Not sure about parking, I hope to figure that out, and it is my plan to be there.
Can non-CA residents oppose Bill 1128? If not, I will continue to do my part by donating to support ACSOL and its members and making noise in IL.
My offense was CP, but because 1 of the 3 pics they got off my computer, they said the victim “appeared” to be under 12. They used that to tack a “DCAC” (dangerous crime against a child) designation onto my Attempted Sexual Exploitation charge. So, I have had to wait to petition for several rights back.
The court at the time said it was a “victimless” crime, but probation and “therapy” screamed otherwise
I have written emails and called. Thank you for organizing this.
A community? Yes, albeit a fragmented and apathetic one that’s afraid to rock the boat and step on big toes.
And it hasn’t even gotten bad yet. How much worse can it get, you ask?
A LOT.
I mailed my letter via mail….and called. I feel good today…Thank you Janice, ACSOL and each and every one I have met through the years at ACSOL. I don’t know what my family would be like without all of you.