We believe in second chances

We believe in second chances

EDITOR:

The United States of America, since the Declaration of independence, the American Revolution, and the U.S. Constitution, has promised life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness to every American citizen, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, or sex. This has been the case for 233 years, through two World Wars and from our first president, George Washington, to now our 44th president, Barack Obama.

As a U.S. citizen, taxpayer, and voter, I believe like all Americans, that America is a great country because it is a country of freedom, opportunity, redemption, forgiveness and second chances, especially once you have paid your debt to society and the American people. As Congressman Jim Traficant and NFL football player Michael Vick have.

The truth is Traficant and Vick have already paid their debts to our society by spending years in prison for their criminal activities.

In a country of second chances, they should have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, just like all Americans have.

WILLIE JAMES RICHARDS

Youngstown