Breaking the Silence: Women Behind Bars

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

This cross-disciplinary research seeks to add to the breadth of knowledge and understanding within women’s studies, communications, sociology and criminal justice fields by offering an analysis of a women’s grassroots social justice organization. The mission of this organization is to serve as a voice for women in prison and to speak out against the criminal justice system— particularly, the prison system. The purpose of this research is to examine the ways that women inmates are speaking out about a range of prison issues. There is a general perception that incarcerated women are voiceless, politically powerless and invisible. However, women scholars and prison advocates alike assert that there is a nationwide movement taking place that delineates sites of struggle and resistance. This research highlights California Coalition for Women Prisoners (CCWP), and its role in providing a public space for women to speak out from their own experiences and perspectives. The current study focuses on several fundamental questions that address the main issues being articulated by women inmates and women advocates and their proposed solutions. Answers to these research questions will provide significant insight into women’s prison experiences and whether or not women inmates and advocates are articulating an agenda for change.

Author

• Tamanika Ferguson, Howard University