← Veteran's Affairs Plus W/ David L. Washington

Jovan Jackson and Royal Ramey Turn Justice Reform into Careers in Firefighting

Jul 11, 2026 · 29 min

About this episode

Dave Washington hosts Veterans Affairs Plus, featuring Assemblyman Jovan Jackson and Chief Royal Ramey. Jackson, a former inmate and current Nevada state legislator, discusses his advocacy for criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and mental health care. Ramey, co-founder of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program, shares his efforts to help formerly incarcerated individuals transition into firefighting careers. They highlight the success of their programs, with Ramey's organization having assisted over 360 individuals since 2018. Jackson's legislation guarantees employment for incarcerated firefighters in Nevada. Both emphasize the importance of workforce development, criminal justice reform, and addressing the climate crisis.