California prisoners engage in some the most laborious work to provide over 1400 goods and services which support the daily operations of prisons in addition to supplying private capital with a cheap labor source via its Joint Ventures programs.
Women prisoners work in unsafe environments, endure extreme weather, and other slave-like conditions. Many are forced to work despite illness, disability, and age. Women who refuse or are unable to work, face extended prison terms. Most work without pay. If women are paid, many pay 55% of their income in restitution fees.
This issue of The Fire Inside is dedicated to all women prisoners who endure cruel, unfair, unsafe work environments, working without sick or vacation time, and work where retirement is not an option.
Dedication
