As Fair Chance Month comes to an end, it's essential to acknowledge the immense progress made towards building a fairer future for individuals with a criminal record in the U.S., but also recognize the work yet to be done. The unemployment rate for Americans with an arrest or conviction record remains at 27%, and those who find employment often earn $10,000 a year or less. This is partly due to the practice of civil death, where individuals lose all their civil rights upon conviction, and the assumption that they've paid their "debt" to society by serving time in prison. Instead, America has erected numerous barriers that prevent released inmates from accessing employment, housing, and economic stability, exacerbating poverty, desperation, and recidivism. These barriers disproportionately affect Black and Brown communities due to systemic racism and poverty. A fairer future requires a holistic approach, including fair chance hiring, access to livable wage employment, safe and dignified housing, education, and supports for individuals with records to become contributing members of their communities. By giving everyone a fair chance every day, we can build enriched communities and promote healthy societies.