Forming State Groups Handbook
What They Are and How to Build Your Own
ReformSexOffenderLaws.org does not have directly
associated chapters. Rather, we help form, or are glad to recognize
independently formed, groups with similar goals - that is to work
for an end to the current hysteria against sex offenders by informing
public opinion, and to work to amend the existing sex offender
registration and commitment laws in line with the RSOL goals stated on
our home page. We will call these groups Affiliated State Groups. As
such, they are autonomous, making their own decisions.
Because we accept their independence, RSOL affiliates may form policies
that differ from those listed on the RSOL website. If the policies
become too divergent, the RSOL administrative team reserves the right to
remove affiliates and find allies in those states who fit the RSOL
project more comfortably.
In this
way, the affiliated state groups as well as our national website group,
Reformsexoffenderlaws.org, remain secure and independent. We believe
this decentralization serves both the interests and needs of the state
groups and our national goals. The affiliate state groups are listed
here on the Stage Group page, together with contact information.
Tips from Texas Voices
Differentiation: Education is the Key
"There is a huge difference between stealing a candy bar from the local
convenience store and robbing a bank". Both crimes are considered theft.
Both are DIFFERENTIATED by law.
Not so for sex offenses. Many topics were discussed at our first TEXAS
VOICES meeting. The most substantial topics were differentiation and
education. The first of these topics, differentiation, has been widely
discussed. However, until the general public becomes aware of the facts,
legislators and public officials will continue to introduce "feel good"
laws, affecting no-risk/ low-risk sex offenders and their families.
Unfortunately, facts are seldom revealed by the media, resulting in a
lack of understanding concerning public opinion. Actually, many who
promote and enforce "tough on sex offender" legislation, seldom conduct
the research necessary to justify their actions. TV group members
unanimously support and recognize the need for educating the public.
Therefore, our members offer the following "education"suggestions with
the hope of helping new and upcoming groups/organizations for the reform
of sex offender laws:
- Contact college/university law professors: Ask for the opportunity to
be a "guest speaker" in one of their classes. Discuss current sex
offender laws, restrictions, conditions, and civil rights issues. Most
colleges/ universities list "Faculty Profiles" on their website. Choose
a professor who specializes in criminal law, constitutional theory,
civil rights, etc. It will be important to listen to those who agree
with your own personal beliefs as well as those who do not! Opposition
will always be a factor. We must be willing to listen and learn why our
opinions are opposed. This will enable us to provide reasonable,
realistic, statistical, and factual responses in the future.
- Speak with your local church minister, priest, etc: Several of our
members have found a tremendous amount of support within their religious
communities. Apparently, many clergy members are not aware of the
probation/parole condition that prohibits offenders from attending
worship services without prior permission from probation/parole officers
and treatment providers. One such minister has offered to assist in
regards to educating his congregation.
- Tell your story: Public opinion depends on our ability to share. Texas
Voices members have put forth a tremendous effort to educate others. For
instance, http://ChangingTheLaw.com has received many encouraging
responses and gained a substantial amount of support for our cause.
Other members, even those who prefer to remain anonymous, have found
several outlets for sharing their stories as well.
- Write or E-Mail your legislators: One basic letter can be sent to many.
(Change the heading and send, send, send!) Keep in mind, letters with
angry overtones are less likely to be considered. The first sentence of
your letter may encourage further reading.
- Write or E-Mail your local newspaper: Address a specific issue.
Residency restrictions, unnecessary probation/parole conditions,
recidivism rates, teen offenders, or any issue relating to your specific
situation. Or, simply tell your story in hopes of reaching others who
may not realize the injustice that exists under the current laws, as
structured.
- Educate yourself! It is vital for all who are fighting for change to
know the facts. We cannot effectively educate others until we,
ourselves, are knowledgeable and passionate about our cause. FACTS will
carry us forward...
Texas Voices recommends that all individual state organizations for the
reform of sex offender laws schedule regular meetings. E-Mail
communication is also essential. On behalf of Texas Voices, I would like
to thank Alex at reformsexoffenderlaws.org for his continuous support,
encouragement, and help. Keep those names comin'........
Sincerely,
Mary Sue Molnar (TEXAS VOICES)
