About This Lesson
Objectives:
- Students will examine “collateral consequences” that are associated with felony convictions and explore consequences in both their state and nationwide.
- Students will evaluate and advocate for legislation related to criminal release, reentry, or reintegration
- Students will analyze the issue of “felony disenfranchisement” across the country and a case study in the state of Florida.
Overview: Individuals convicted of felonies face numerous punishments beyond serving time in jail or prison. Federal and state governments have enacted a large number of additional restrictions on formerly incarcerated individuals. This lesson focuses on felony disenfranchisement (restrictions on the right to vote) and describes other “collateral consequences,” or punishments and restrictions beyond prison. Students will explore a number of digital resources, including an article, a video and interactive websites to analyze restrictions that people convicted of felonies face.
Estimated Time: One or two 50-minute class periods (this lesson would also fit well as an asynchronous/distance learning lesson)
