Correcting the Narrative Awards Continues to Honor Justice-Impacted Individuals
Roy Rogers receiving is Correcting the Narrative award. (Picture by Sebastian de la Vega King)
Roy Rogers enjoys every day because he thought he’d never get his freedom back. At one point, Rogers was in prison serving a life sentence but just a few weeks ago, he accepted an award. Rogers spent 28 years in the system from actions he made as a teen, so he told himself that if he was given a second chance he wouldn’t let it go to waste.
“I’ve done the worst thing in life, so I’m obligated to be the best version of me,” he said.
Rogers was released over a year ago through the work of a Milwaukee youth justice organization.
Although he considers himself a “newborn in society”, he hit the ground running. He’s currently employed at Quad Graphics in their postal solution data operations department. He’s been with Quad since December 2021 and was promoted two months ago.
“I love my life and what I have right now,” he said.
Along with finding a career job, Rogers spends his time speaking to and mentoring youth who are going down the same path he took.
“I have an opportunity to make a difference,” Rogers said.
Rogers’ story is one many of justice-impacted individuals that Milwaukeean Shannon Ross wants to amplify. Ross’ nonprofit The Community recently hosted their second Annual Correcting the Narrative Awards that honors those who’ve been in the system but have positively impacted the community.
The award show sold out once again as the Milwaukee community came together to uplift those who tend to be forgotten.
“Be more open to people who have been incarcerated or have a criminal record,” said Ross.
Rogers was one of the eight honorees selected by organizations involved in reentry, justice reform or decarceration work.
2021’s award coverage can be found here.