I can't believe I'm saying this -- my TED Talk is officially LIVE! A million little moments came together to lead me to this big moment and I’m grateful for all of it — the good and the bad — because it all brought me here to this work at #CleanSlate.

12 states & DC have passed #CleanSlate legislation, creating a pathway for over 16 million people to get back to work. It’s time for #Congress to pass the bipartisan federal Clean Slate Act and for the other 38 states to follow.

#CleanSlate laws fix this by automatically clearing old records for people with low-level offenses who’ve remained crime-free. The results are powerful. Clean Slate leads to: 🔸 22% wage growth within a year 🔸 Lower recidivism 🔸 People filling open jobs

I can say from personal experience that I wanted to volunteer at my child’s school and was blocked because of my record for writing a bad check for $86 worth of groceries.

Records also prevent people from going back to school and volunteering, the two other ways to fulfill the Medicaid requirement. 72% of colleges and universities use #background checks to screen out applicants with records.

Because 94% of employers use background checks to screen out applicants with arrest or conviction records, millions of job seekers have their applications thrown out – and it’s often for minor, years-old offenses.

The expansion of #Medicaid work requirements makes it more important than ever to get rid of outdated barriers that actively block people who want to work from getting a job.  If we’re raising the stakes around work, we must also clear the path to it. 🧵#OBBBA

I can say from personal experience that I wanted to volunteer at my child’s school and was blocked because of my record for writing a bad check for $86 worth of groceries.

Records also prevent people from going back to school and volunteering, the two other ways to fulfill the Medicaid requirement. 72% of colleges and universities use #background checks to screen out applicants with records.

Because 94% of employers use background checks to screen out applicants with arrest or conviction records, millions of job seekers have their applications thrown out – and it’s often for minor, years-old offenses.

Leadership is a journey, not a destination. As I reflect on how far I’ve come, I’m reminded that the best chapters are still ahead. What’s your vision for the future? Let’s inspire each other. #PainToPower #LeadershipVision

We trust visionary social sector leaders and value those with lived experiences. @Sheena_Meade’s story highlights the lasting impacts of #criminaljustice system interaction, and now she’s breaking down barriers to opportunity post-incarceration by scaling @cleanslate_init.

True leadership isn’t about standing in the spotlight—it’s about shining that light on others. Empowerment creates a ripple effect. Who has empowered you, and how are you paying it forward? Let’s talk. #PainToPower #EmpowermentInLeadership

CSI is #hiring! We’re looking for a Finance Director to join our team and support financial planning & analysis. If you’re ready to make an impact, apply today! 🔗 https://t.co/bEyJ9fm7Fg #FinanceJobs #JobAlert #NonprofitCareers #CSI #Hiring

Pain isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning. One of the most fulfilling parts of my work is using my experiences to create policies that change lives. Turning struggles into solutions is the ultimate way to make an impact. What pain have you turned into purpose in your work? #P...

Maryland has a real opportunity to remove barriers and create pathways to success with the Clean Slate Act (HB545/SB398). Maryland, let’s make this happen! 🔗 Read more: https://t.co/t3ebyE4TnM #CleanSlateMD #SecondChances

For a long time, I didn’t see my identity as a Black woman as a strength in leadership. I saw it as a challenge. Now, I’ve learned that embracing who I am is what sets me apart. Diversity in leadership isn’t just important—it’s necessary. How has your identity shaped your lead...

Leadership in a bipartisan space has taught me that progress isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about finding common ground. Focusing on shared goals led to breakthroughs I never imagined. How do you navigate differences to create impact? #PainToPower #BipartisanLeadership

Too many people are held back by past records—often without understanding the options available. @CleanSlate_Init’s Reginald Darby breaks down pardon, clemency, expungement, & Clean Slate—and why these differences matter. Let’s push for real second chan...

Illinois, let’s get this #CleanSlate win! 👏🏾 Passing Clean Slate policies could bring $4.7B back into the economy & boost wages by 20% for those impacted. This is about justice and economic power. Time to make it happen! 💜 #CleanSlateIL

Resilience isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged in the fire of challenges. In my career, I’ve faced tough decisions, being underestimated, and working with limited resources. Resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s what helps us lead. How has resilience shaped your journey? #...