The article argues that solitary confinement is not only inhumane but also counterproductive, as it exacerbates violence within prisons and hinders successful reintegration of inmates into society.

This essay is part of How to Live With Regret, a series exploring the nature of regret and the role it plays in all our lives.

In Washington State, incarcerated individuals, with support from organizations like Look2Justice, are actively engaging in the legislative process by testifying before state lawmakers on issues directly affecting their lives, such as prison communication costs, extreme sentencing practices, and the use of solitary confinement.

In his memoir, Christopher Blackwell recounts the psychological and physical challenges he faced during an unexplained stint in solitary confinement, striving to maintain his dignity and positivity amid the dehumanizing conditions.

Women, especially women of color, shoulder financial and emotional burdens to support incarcerated loved ones, crucial for reentry and reducing recidivism.

Christopher Blackwell reflects on a fleeting moment of unity and the longing for freedom in prison, as incarcerated men come together to watch birds nesting on a windowsill.

In January 2024, NYC Mayor Eric Adams vetoed a bill to ban solitary confinement in city jails, a move criticized as inhumane and counterproductive. The City Council overrode his veto, enacting the ban.

The article discusses Washington’s House Bill 2030, sponsored by Rep. Tarra Simmons, which seeks to grant voting rights to incarcerated individuals.

Incarcerated writer Christopher Blackwell reflects on a transformative justice group where men with violent pasts confront their own trauma, highlighting the link between systemic hardship and violence as key to healing and prevention.

A technical error by Securus Technologies in November 2023 deleted all draft messages from incarcerated individuals’ e-messaging accounts in Washington State prisons, erasing important writings with no recovery option, while the company offered minimal compensation.

Despite New Jersey’s 2019 law aimed at reforming solitary confinement, reports indicate the state’s Department of Corrections continues practices that may violate this legislation.

Incarcerated individuals navigate the holiday season with a mix of loneliness and fleeting joy, finding comfort in small traditions, acts of kindness, and reflections on the outside world.

In his essay, Christopher Blackwell reflects on how his wife’s rescue dog, Betsy (affectionately known as Chicken Sticks), taught her unconditional love, enabling her to embrace a relationship with him despite his incarceration.

In their joint essay, incarcerated writer Christopher Blackwell and suburban author Jamie Beth Cohen discuss their unique collaboration facilitated by Empowerment Avenue, highlighting how their partnership bridges the divide between prison life and the outside world, leading to personal growth and mutual understanding.

Incarcerated writers face significant challenges in exercising their free speech rights, including prohibitive communication costs, fear of retaliation, and isolation, which hinder their participation in public discourse on criminal justice reform.

Christopher Blackwell and Nick Hacheney argue that Washington should allow incarcerated individuals to earn early release through rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, prison overcrowding, and costs while promoting public safety.

Jessica Phoenix Sylvia details the systemic transphobia, abuse, and harassment she endures in a men’s prison, underscoring the urgent need for prison reform to protect transgender individuals.

In a reflective letter to his younger self, an incarcerated writer shares hard-won insights, offering guidance and wisdom gained through personal experiences.

Christopher Blackwell argues that early release decisions should be based on rehabilitation and risk assessment rather than solely on the original crime, advocating for data-driven parole policies.

Christopher Blackwell exposes how Washington State Reformatory failed to enforce COVID-19 safety measures, endangering prisoners while prioritizing institutional reputation over their well-being.

Christopher Blackwell argues that incarcerated individuals should receive COVID-19 stimulus checks to support their families, aid rehabilitation, and reduce recidivism.