A seasoned Alabama basketball referee, Tom Gravy Regan, spoke out about the discrimination faced by former incarcerated individuals, even long after serving their time.
Tom Gravy Regan’s Facebook handle showcases that he is originally from Mobile, Alabama, United States.
He went to Murphy High School and graduated in 1982. Later, he studied general studies at McLennan Community College.
Regan also served as the Alabama basketball referee for a long time.
In addition, he is the owner of Tom’s Quality Lawn Care.
Former Felon And Longtime Alabama Basketball Referee Faces Ongoing Discrimination Despite 18+ Years Served And Clean Record
Recently, Tom Gravy Regan, a seasoned Alabama basketball referee, took to his official Facebook handle and spoke out about the discrimination faced by formerly incarcerated individuals, even long after serving their time.
After spending more than 18 years behind bars, Tom returned to society determined to rebuild his life.
Despite maintaining a clean record since release and having no history of child-related offenses, he was recently denied a stay at an Airbnb.
This moment painfully highlighted the continued discrimination he faced in housing, employment, and even voting.
Tom has contributed to Alabama’s sports scene by officiating local and regional basketball games and has built a reputation for fairness and professionalism on the court.
Many who have worked with him over the years describe him as community-minded and passionate about the game.
His recent attempt to book a short-term rental through Airbnb was halted when he was denied based on his criminal record.
The former felon has experienced repeated challenges when applying for jobs, securing housing, and participating in democratic processes.
A local advocate for criminal justice reform said,
. “We say people deserve second chances, but our laws and systems often deny them that,” . “When someone has served nearly two decades in prison and has proven themselves as a positive influence in their community, continuing to block access to basic rights and services is unconscionable.”
Advocate For Criminal Justice Reform
For the Alabama referee, these obstacles are more than bureaucratic. He added,
“I’m not asking for special treatment,” “Just a fair shot like everyone else.”
Advocate For Criminal Justice Reform
James Luginbyhl from Stinnett, Texas, said that Airbnb is ridiculous. He added,
Airbnb won’t let me book with them either. I had an issue with my exwife that was dropped and I could totally prove was no issue. I booked my honeymoon when I remarried and they cancelled it without even telling me. I just happened to look at our reservation a few days before we went. Airbnb is ridiculous
James Luginbyhl
Chris Burkett, a sales manager at Serenity Roofing & Construction, said,
I don’t let it stop me at all. Yeah, there are some downfalls and people that change up, but I just keep going. As far as life insurance, my wife has a $250k policy on me, as well as several, smaller policies. I can’t vote yet, either, but I still speak out. As far as protecting the house, my wife is tasked with that one, as well as dealing with AirBNB. Life goes on. I’m better now than I was 8 years ago. 🤷🏼♂️
Chris Burkett
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Alabama referee Tom Gravy Regan tied the knot with Michelle Posey Regan. She is from Houston, Texas, and attended Jakarta Intercultural School from 1980 to 1982.
