A mayoral pardons clinic hosted by the ACLU of Nebraska at the Heartland Workers Center drew residents seeking help understanding whether past Omaha ordinance violations qualified for a pardon. Organized by Schmeeka Simpson, the clinic connected attendees with ACLU attorneys Jennifer Houlden, Carter Matt and Jamel Connor, along with law clerk Christopher Gomez, for one-on-one record reviews and assistance. Simpson said 16 people registered ahead of the event, but 10 learned they were not eligible for a mayoral pardon, highlighting confusion about which offenses qualify.
The evening operated as a working clinic, with attorneys reviewing individual records, explaining options and discussing whether other remedies might be available. Attendees shared concerns about how past offenses continued to affect employment opportunities, even in cases where records had been set aside. Conversations throughout the evening touched on offenses including disorderly conduct, DUI, vandalism and assault as participants waited with questions about how to move forward.
By 7:30 p.m., Simpson said 26 people had signed in, with additional chairs and tables brought in to accommodate attendees. Some participants waited with children as attorneys continued meeting with residents throughout the evening, and conversations were still underway when the event was scheduled to end at 8 p.m.
Meeting documented by Jeanie Mezger
Ready full meeting notes here
