Natalie Burke MSW. DBH Candidate CEO W.E.L.L Athletic Development Twenty years ago I was convicted of a non violent marijuana related charge. I served my sentence of 120 days (4months), 3 yrs probation , community services, and paid my restitution. I paid my debt to society and fulfilled my obligation to the justice system. In the interim, I developed a deep spiritual relationship with the Most High, I did tons of self development including pursuing a higher education. I did a holistic 180 turn for the better. My career and personal life metamorphosed into a far better version of myself. It took a lot of hard work and discipline to not return to my old life when there was so much temptation. Then to my surprise in the middle of the night, my son and I had dinner and we’re watching a movie, I.C.E. knocks on my door and callously locks me up in front of my son. I was detained in a federal facility for 18 months fighting to stay in the only country I had known. During this time I realized my calling to become a Social Worker. In the Federal detention center I provided resources and support to the women I was locked up with. After being released I attended Arizona State University and received my Bachelor’s and Masters degrees in Social Work. In 2016, the State of Arizona granted me my rights back and set aside my criminal record, so I was able to purchase a fire arm, pass a background check etc. I was suppose to be freed from any disability that a felony conviction would pose. Apparently the issue that I thought was reconciled and left in my past was not according to the federal government. Unbeknownst to me my charges left me deportable. The only thing that can help me to regain my freedom is a gubernatorial pardon. Jan 26, 2018 the Arizona Board of Executive Clemency granted me a favorable recommendation for a gubernatorial pardon. I have waited 5 long hard years in hopes that the former governor Doug Ducey would grant me the pardon. On December 30,2022 he denied my pardon application. As a result At a moments notice I can be deported back to Jamaica. I came to this country legally as a permanent resident in April of 1979 at the age of 3. I have lived as an American for 43 years. Marijuana is now legal in the state of Arizona, it is disheartening that what I was criminalized for has now become a billion dollar industry. Most of the people capitalizing from cannabis don’t look like me however, the people incarcerated for it do. I am compelled to share my story in hopes that someone in a position of power will help me attain a pardon so that my family can remain together. I am unable to work, have no access to health insurance, I had a stroke a few months back. It would be an injustice to let my son be punished by taking his mom away. I never committed murder and I deserve a second chance. Although I did the time I was sentenced to, day after day my mind continues to be imprisoned by the fear of being deported. My heart is wounded by the betrayal of a country that I love, yet I feel so unloved by. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/jackierowe/message