Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe A Texas lawyer traded in his business attire for an orange prison jumpsuit during Lent this year in order to bring attention to “the ways our world locks up the poor and marginalized.” Specifically, Kent McKeever wanted to raise awareness about how ex-convicts are viewed and treated in society after they are released. The 34-year-old works for Mission Waco, an organization that provides low-cost legal services to people who have been convicted of committing a crime. Advertisement "The reality is that 65 million Americans have some sort of criminal record," McKeever told KWTX. "They can't have a job, they don't have housing, they can't get an education to better themselves. They can't even get basic social services in many situations. There aren't many equal chances for everyone in many situations." After eight days in the suit, Mckeever has gotten a little taste of what his clients experience. "It's been an eye-opening experience for me to get a little glimpse of what so many people in our society who are pushed to the margins what they must feel," McKeever. "It just changed the way that I see the world, and I'll never forget that." Advertisement By wearing the suit and explaining why he has it on, Mckeever hopes to influence people to think a little differently the next time they encounter an ex-con. "We need to care for them and show compassion for them and understand their situation so we can help them have another chance," McKeever said. "And not just a second chance, but a fair chance." [KWTX] [The Huffington Post]
