The Halifax and Northampton Local Reentry Council today celebrated the graduation of several people who have taken the steps to reform.
The event, held in Jackson at the Northampton County Department of Social Services, was called Restoring Lives, Rebuilding Hope, and Reclaiming Community and featured numerous speakers, including a keynote address by North Carolina Associate Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls.
The graduates honored were:
Ephraim Collum
Christopher Cook
Darius Lewter
Nasir Lynch
Jamonte Moody
Jermaine Newsome
Bobby Purnell Jr.
Darius Vinson
Kajuan Williams
Don Windley
Earls explained to the graduates why reentry programs are important to her. “I know what it feels like when our rights are not respected. My brother was in jail for not paying his child support,” she said. “I saw how that impacted him — how that impacted our family. I saw the challenge he faced to make a living because of that experience.”
She told the graduates, “ … I know personally what incredible potential all of you have and the incredible value you have and I want to do whatever I can to support that.”
Patrena Benton Eliiott, president of Halifax Community College, told the graduates, “What a powerful moment this is as a celebration of courage, perseverance and purpose.”
The day, she said, was a celebration of resilience, transformation, and possibility. “Your journey has not been an easy one, but you chose to rise. You chose to learn, grow, and to prepare for the next chapter of your life with determination … Reentry matters because everyone deserves a second chance.”
Chief District Court Judge Teresa Robinson Freeman said via a video message, “This is such a powerful moment that we are celebrating today. This ceremony is not just a celebration of what you completed, it’s a recognition of your courage, your resilience and your determination.”
District Attorney Kim G. Scott said by video, “I’m excited about the work our local council is doing. Once we realize that privilege is not extended to everybody, we will really be able to cover ground. Everyone that’s involved in justice doesn’t have the opportunity to walk out of court and have someone waiting for them to take them home or to provide them with employment opportunities.”
That is why, Scott said, “It’s so important that we have a local reentry council here in our own backyard that we can partner with and work together with to help people right where we are.”
Orin Perry, chair of the council, read congratulations from Congressman Don Davis and state Representative Rodney Pierce.
Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Brenda Branch told those attending their presence spoke volumes. “It says you believe in this program. It says you believe in the people graduating today.”
Jason Yeatts, pastor of East Tenth Street Christian Church, said reentry traces its roots back to Hebrew scripture. “When the God of the universe was telling his people to establish justice, this council stands on a very solid rock. Your resources just don’t come from the federal or state government, they’re coming from the godly universe.”
Northampton County Manager Julian Phillips told the graduates, “You have a room full of folks who believe in you.”
Halifax County Assistant County Manager Thomas Everett said, “I want you to remember that you’re not defined by your past — you’re defined by what you do next.”
Joseph Styles, of the state department of correction, told the graduates, “The easy part is done. The future is all on you guys.”
Linda Baker, of probation and parole, said the reentry program has come through for her 100 percent of the time.
The certificates given to the graduates noted they have demonstrated dedication, perseverance and commitment to personal growth as well as successfully reintegrating into the community.
