The Many Lives of Mama Love and Incarceration and Reentry

• In Event: Roundtable: A Book Club Discussion on The Many Lives of Mama Love and the CJ System

Abstract

Behind bars, Lara Love Hardin’s (aka Mama Love) navigates the harsh realities of the prison system while using her writing skills to assist fellow inmates. However, her release marks the beginning of an equally difficult journey—navigating life with a criminal record. Hardin faces immense barriers, including housing insecurity, employment struggles, and the lasting stigma of her past. Despite these obstacles, she fights to rebuild her identity, proving that redemption is possible. The memoir provides an intimate look at the dehumanization and challenges of incarceration, from the loss of autonomy and privacy to the struggle for dignity. Upon her release, Hardin confronts the stigma of a criminal record, battling societal judgment and systemic barriers as she attempts to rebuild her life. Through her raw and honest storytelling, Hardin sheds light on the systemic difficulties of reintegration and the resilience required to overcome them. Her story serves as both a personal testament and a broader critique of how society treats formerly incarcerated individuals, emphasizing the need for second chances and meaningful support systems.

Authors

• Jane Daquin, Sam Houston State University

• Erin M. Kearns, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE