By Shaunak Chaudhary, a Master’s Graduate in Computer Science from Santa Clara University and a member of the Paper Prisons tech team.
As an international student from India studying in California, my journey in the United States has been a mix of excitement, opportunities, and challenges. One of the most significant challenges has been navigating the complexities of the U.S. legal system, a system that is vastly different from what I was accustomed to back home.
My unfamiliarity with the laws here, combined with my status as a non-citizen, often left me feeling vulnerable and apprehensive. From the moment I arrived, I was acutely aware of my outsider status. The fear of inadvertently breaking a law or being unjustly targeted because of my race or nationality was a constant shadow over my daily life. For instance, during my first month in California, I was advised by my friend about jaywalking. Back home in India, crossing the street wherever it’s convenient is common practice, and I didn’t realize at the time it was a violation here. This incident made me feel anxious and hyper-aware of my every move, worried that any small mistake could lead to more severe consequences simply because I was an outsider.
Another example was when I didn’t realize I had to carry my passport at all times as a form of identification. I constantly fear being mistaken for an illegal immigrant or being questioned about my status. Despite not doing anything wrong, I always carry my passport to prove that I am a legal resident and that I am complying with all laws.
When I joined the Paper Prisons team as a product manager, the primary motivation behind my decision was the cause we are all committed to: “Providing a second chance, democratizing the legal system, and ensuring transparency.” This mission inspired and excited me to contribute to this important work.
The RJA is particularly significant for someone like me, an international student who is still learning to navigate a new culture and legal system. It reassures me that there are safeguards in place designed to protect individuals from racial injustice. The act’s provision for challenging racially disparate treatment based on statistical evidence, rather than requiring proof of intent, is a progressive step towards ensuring fairness and equality.
As a part of the Paper Prisons team, I am committed to contributing towards this cause by improving and expanding the tool’s capabilities. This tool not only supports the RJA’s mission, but also offers hope and justice to those who might otherwise be overlooked. Through my work, I aim to help build a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity for a second chance.
