I’m always reminded of the importance of advocacy for one’s self. I know how crucial it is in overcoming the barriers they face in housing, employment, and reintegration as I am one of them too. Without self-advocacy and strong ally support, the challenges imposed by the registry can feel insurmountable. However, I believe that by speaking up and pushing for…
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“Hi, I’m Ashley, a person forced to register and I know all too well how isolating and overwhelming this journey can feel.” – I have the privilege of facilitating Fearless, a support group that has changed my life and the lives of so many others. Like most of the people who attend, Society has a way of making us feel…
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When criminologist Stephanie Jerstad’s former client, a registered ‘sex offender’ died waiting to find a long-term care facility in Illinois that would accept him, she dedicated her dissertation research to studying if facility-level characteristics matter in explaining organizational policies for the admission of persons on the sex offender registry. This issue intersects with public health, social justice, and human rights,…
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In a world often defined by disconnection, punishment and retribution, restorative circles offer a compelling alternative: connection, accountability, and healing. Amber Vlangas, a leading voice in restorative justice and a survivor of sexual violence, passionately advocates for this transformative approach. At the 2024 PARSOL Fall Conference, she shared insights into the powerful practice of restorative circles, which bridge the divide…
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It’s a new year! Many of us make New Year’s resolutions like a healthy diet, going to the gym, catching up with friends and family members, and financial goals to improve our lifestyles. Those are great resolutions, but what about persons forced to register (PFRs)? What’s something deeply personal for you to work on? Living with the label of “registered…
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Involvement with the legal system in the United States can be a traumatizing experience. For those who have been found guilty of crimes of a sexual nature, this process almost always results in a massive upheaval of what is considered normal. The dread of what is going to play out in the courts, the shame of exposure, and the remorse…
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Submitted by Atwo Zee, Registered Traveler Not long after I returned to Iowa after the 2024 NARSOL conference in Atlanta, I received an email forwarded by the national NARSOL office. This message came to them on their main “Contact Us” email address, and whoever sent it was looking specifically for me, “whose story “Unwanted Images” hit home when I was…
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Artistic Submissions Due by May 17th Join us for an evening of artistic exploration and heartfelt expression at the PARSOL Artistic Expression Forum on May 24th at 7:00 p.m. Unlock the power of poetry, paintings, drawings, sculpting, and various art forms to convey the registry’s impact on individuals. This event is open to all, including Persons Forced to Register (PFRs),…
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As Pennsylvania observes both Autism Acceptance Month and Sexual Assault Prevention Month this April, the Pennsylvania Association for Rational Sexual Offense Laws (PARSOL) has released a new report focusing on individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other intellectual and developmental disabilities who are involved in sexual offense cases.
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📅 Date: Friday, April 5, 2024🕖 Time: 7:00 PM (EST)💲 Free for PARSOL members, or $10 (includes one-year introductory membership) In this session, Dr. Jennifer Weeks, a distinguished expert in the field of sexual addiction and “sex offender” treatment programs, will delve into treatment models and the crucial aspect of advocating for one’s own treatment. Gain valuable insights and strategies…
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