Colorblind: Incarc(HER)ated

Today I attended Women Unshackled, a conference focused on generating solutions attacking the growth of female incarceration. The agenda included an amazing opening statement and fireside chat by Senator Kamala Harris, an inspiring and powerful black woman, and a moving introductory remark by Representative and Minister Doug Collins. The breakout sessions were impassioned and informed calls to action, urging the need for effective services and humane reform of female prisons.

This post will include many links, all of which I strongly push you to explore. It is about helping to share the voices and ideas involved in this conversation on an issue that touches all of us.

Incarcerated women is a community issue, and I do take responsibility for contributing to some of the ignorant stigmas surrounding imprisoned women. This post is not my first humble attempt at correcting my flaws, but a component of an ongoing commitment to change and growth.

Women are multi-faceted, resilient, and responsive members of our society; these descriptors should not change or disappear when a woman is incarcerated. Civil rights, dignity, expectations of respect and humane treatment must not be barred by bars. Women should not be shackled to a lifetime of recurring trauma, risk of recidivism, and a scarlet letter of shame upon release from imprisonment. Time served must not remain an illusory statement with no tangible outcomes or bridges to resources for a future of unchained possibilities.

Join the conversation, and use your voice to advocated for those who are unable to speak out for the rights they deserve. This post will be updated with linked podcasts, featuring powerful voices of advocates dedicated to change.

Ban the Box Campaign to Erase Employment Discrimination Based on Previous Convictions

Dignity for Women Act Press Release

Report on Policies to Help Children of Incarcerated Parents

The Sentencing Project Fact Sheet: Incarcerated Women and Girls

The Sentencing Project: Women

Bill: Stop Infant Mortality And Recidivism Reduction Act of 2016









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