Grassroots Organizing
Family Advocacy Network
LSPC is currently working towards establishing a state-wide network of women prisoner health advocates consisting of former women prisoners and family members. In our work, we find that the best advocates are often those most deeply affected by the problem and those with the knowledge and skills required to be effective. This project trains people in the hands-on work of direct advocacy as part of the fight to improve conditions for women in prison.
In May 2001, LSPC organized a family member retreat weekend which included eight family members from across the state. People came together to share their stories and strategies about fighting for the lives of their incarcerated loved ones. In November 2001, we convened a professionally facilitated media training in Los Angeles where participants learned how to tell their stories to the press.
Annual Chowchilla Protests
Each year, LSPC works in coalition with other Bay Area prison rights groups to organize a demonstration at the gates of the two women's prisons in Chowchilla. These protests draw hundreds of people angered at the inhumane treatment women prisoner struggle against daily. To find out more about the next protest contact Karen Shain (karen@prisonerswithchildren.org, or 415-255-7036 ext. 313).
