Brent Cassity Interviews Jay Jordan, Who “Banned the Box” in LA

Jay Jordan’s path from being locked up to becoming an advocate is an incredible story of strength and hard work. After leaving prison in 2012, Jordan was focused on rebuilding his life, a challenge that motivated him to create positive change not only for himself but for millions of others facing similar barriers in California.

From Prison to Advocacy

Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, Jordan’s early life was full of challenges and limited opportunities. As a young man, he made poor choices that led to a conviction and a long prison sentence. But during his time behind bars, Jordan experienced a profound change, finding a new sense of purpose and a strong desire to make a positive impact.

“Prison was a wake-up call for me,” Jordan says. “I realized that I had the power to change the direction of my life, and I was determined to use that power to help others in similar situations.”

When he was released, Jordan faced an uphill battle and found that re-entering society was a great challenge. With a criminal record, he encountered closed doors and discrimination in his search for employment and housing. Undeterred, he channeled his frustration into action, becoming a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform.

Driving Change in California

Jordan’s advocacy work began with the “Ban the Box” campaign in Los Angeles, which aimed to stop employment discrimination based on criminal history. This initial success fueled his ambition, and he soon became a driving force behind Californians for Safety and Justice, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reforming the state’s criminal justice system.

“I realized that the barriers I faced were not just my own,” Jordan explains. “Millions of Californians were struggling to rebuild their lives after serving their time, and I knew I had to do something about it.”

Under Jordan’s leadership, Californians for Safety and Justice led a groundbreaking campaign to pass a bill that would automatically seal a wide range of arrest and conviction records in the state. After years of effort, the bill was signed into law in 2022, a significant moment in criminal justice reform, an area where so little has been accomplished.

Empowering Second Chances

The impact of Jordan’s work cannot be overstated. By removing the stigma of a criminal record, the new law has opened doors for countless Californians, allowing them to access employment, housing, and educational opportunities that were previously out of reach.

“It’s not just about the individual,” Jordan emphasizes. “When we empower people with criminal records to succeed, we strengthen our communities as a whole. We break the cycle of poverty, reduce repeat offenses, and create a more just and fair society.”

Jordan’s advocacy extends beyond legislative victories. He has also been instrumental in launching initiatives that provide direct support to justice-impacted individuals, helping them navigate the complex process of record sealing and expungement.

As Jordan continues to champion the cause of criminal justice reform, he is also on a personal mission to expunge his own record. This symbolic gesture underscores his unwavering dedication to the cause he has dedicated his life to.

“It’s important for me to lead by example,” Jordan says. “I want to show others that it’s possible to overcome the challenges of a criminal record and build a fulfilling life. My story is a testament to the power of second chances.”

Looking ahead, Jordan envisions a future where he and his wife can expand their family through adoption, providing a loving home for children in need. This personal goal is a reflection of his broader vision for a more just and compassionate society.

Inspiring Change

As Jordan shared on Brent Cassity’s Nightmare Success podcast, his story demonstrates the transformative power of second chances and the profound impact one individual can have in reshaping the landscape of justice and opportunity for all.

“When I look back on my journey, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and purpose,” Jordan reflects. “I’ve been given a second chance, and I’m determined to use it to create a better future for myself and for others who have faced similar challenges.”

Through his unwavering dedication, Jordan’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a difference, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.

As Jordan continues to inspire and empower others, his legacy will undoubtedly extend far beyond the borders of California, paving the way for a more just and fair society for all.

Joanie Moretti, California Business Journal