Child support Quote by Michelle Alexander
“What are people released from prison expected to do? How are they expected to survive? Can't get a job, locked out of housing, and even food stamps may be off limits. Well, apparently what we expect them to do is to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars in fees, fines, court costs, and back child support (which continues to accrue while you are in prison).”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, 2010
Society imposes financial burdens on formerly incarcerated people, making reintegration difficult and perpetuating inequality.
In simple terms: Ex‑prisoners face costly fees that block basic needs.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for policy reform to remove financial barriers.
Themes
justice
reintegration
poverty
systemic inequality
Mood
frustrated
determined
hopeful
Type
social critique
policy analysis
advocacy
When to use this quote
- job search
- housing applications
- benefits enrollment
- legal aid
- community support
Key Concepts
mass incarceration
financial exploitation
social exclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can communities support reentry without relying on punitive fees?
- What policies could replace financial penalties with restorative measures?
A Different Perspective
Reforms may be politically contentious and face fiscal opposition.
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