Justin Kopepasah preparing for WCUS talk

My WordCamp US Talk about How WordPress Helped Me, a Reformed Convict

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Ball and Chain Wapuu

I am a reformed convict, and today at WordCamp US 2023 I shared my deeply personal journey of reintegration into society after incarceration. Very few people in my circles know this information, and this is my first time sharing it publicly, 18 years after my conviction.

I opened up about the immense challenges I faced as a reformed convict due to societal stigma, especially in the US. This included repeated job rejections at the background check phase and numerous societal barriers such as securing housing or loans.

While I often felt alienated by the US system, like many reformed convicts, countries like South Korea and Australia gave me opportunities based on restorative justice. My ultimate refuge and hope was found in the WordPress community, a haven of inclusiveness, where I truly felt acceptance and belonging. I closed my talk by urging everyone, particularly employers, to look beyond past mistakes and adopt a wholly inclusive mindset.

Talk summary on the WCUS website:

Rising from Rejection: How WordPress Helped Me Reenter Society Again

Video of the talk:

Transcript & Slides:

View PDF Transcript
View PDF Slides

❤️ Special Thanks ❤️

  • Jiwon Lee: for being the most loving and supporting partner, and always going above an beyond for me. You truly are my one and only, my destiny, my “Lebenslangerschicksalsschatz“. Your amazing creativity inspires me everyday, and I love the Ball and Chain Wapuu you created for me. ?
  • My Family: of course, for being there through all the ups and downs.
  • Blair Calvo: for bing the best, best friend anyone could ask for.
  • Nate Finch: for your true friendship and all your amazing support over the years, including all the coworking on WordPress stuff together!
  • Alex Gershon: for your friendship, long-distance chats, and genuine helpfulness since we first met.
  • Cory Miller: for being the first leader in WordPress to guide me into a new life. Go far together!
  • Jake Goldman: for being a one-of-a-kind leader in WordPress.
  • Sheila Bravo: for designing the awesome Ball and Chain Wapuu!
  • The WordPress Community: for being the most open and inclusive community, and giving me the strength and courage to share my story publicly. I am forever indebted to you all. ?

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