Drive to Justice Dinner and Dialogue hosted by The Neighbor Up Network

3400 Saint Clair Avenue Northeast,Cleveland OH 44114

28 September, 2022

Description

I’m writing to you today to extend an invitation to discuss and potentially address a problem which is a perfect representation of systemic inequity. As you may or may not be aware, Ohio currently practices the suspension of driver’s licenses based on debt. The grounds for a suspension include a multitude of infractions not related to driving at all. From missing insurance payments, to not attending traffic court, to even missing a child support payment, these minor debts cause thousands of people to lose the ability to get to work, drive their kids to school, have easy access to healthcare, and help elderly family members. It is of course, no surprise that this practice hurts impoverished communities far more than rich ones. Debt based suspension perpetuates the cycle of poverty, racism, inhibits wealth building, and worsens the health and wellbeing of the community.