National Civil Rights Research and Records Institute
Programs & Initiatives

Re-Entry Civic Restoration

Rights restoration navigation, voter eligibility education, and re-entry policy briefs for returning citizens navigating the path back to full civic participation.

Our Mission

Restoring the Right to Participate

Across the United States, millions of returning citizens face a labyrinth of confusing, inconsistent, and often deliberately obscured rules governing the restoration of their civil rights. The Re-Entry Civic Restoration program exists to cut through that confusion.

We believe that civic participation is not a privilege to be earned back — it is a right that belongs to every person. Our work ensures that returning citizens have the knowledge, tools, and support to reclaim their place in the democratic process.

Assisted over 8,000 returning citizens with rights restoration inquiries

Published state-specific guides covering all 50 jurisdictions

Partnered with 60+ re-entry organizations and legal aid clinics

Supported successful rights restoration petitions in 22 states

Tools & Resources

What This Program Provides

01

Rights Restoration Navigation

Step-by-step guidance through the rights restoration process in your state — including eligibility requirements, petition procedures, waiting periods, and which rights are automatically restored upon release.

02

Voter Eligibility Education

Plain-language resources explaining voting rights for returning citizens: what your conviction means for your eligibility, how to check your status, and how to register once your rights are restored.

03

Re-Entry Policy Briefs

Research-backed policy briefs documenting the barriers returning citizens face and the legislative reforms needed — used to educate lawmakers, advocates, and the public on systemic change.

04

State-by-State Resource Maps

Jurisdiction-specific guides covering restoration timelines, pardon processes, expungement eligibility, and local legal aid organizations — because re-entry rights vary dramatically by state.

05

Peer Navigator Network

Trained peer navigators — many with lived re-entry experience — who provide one-on-one support, answer questions, and connect returning citizens with legal, housing, and civic resources.

06

Re-Entry Hotline

A direct support line staffed by knowledgeable advocates who can answer questions about rights restoration, voter eligibility, and next steps — available to returning citizens and their families.

Take the Next Step

Your Rights Don't End at the Gate

Whether you are navigating re-entry yourself, supporting a loved one, or working as an advocate — our team is here to help. Reach out to connect with a peer navigator or access our state-specific resources.

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Voter Registration Equity

County-specific guidance, registration drives, and a voter protection hotline.

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Legislative Advocacy & Mobilization

Issue campaigns, scorecards, policy alerts, and direct legislator contact tools.

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Youth & College Division

Leadership training, civic education, and digital advocacy skills.

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