09 Dec Reflections on the Second Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium
In November, the 2nd Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium was held at Columbia Law School, organized by Children of Incarcerated Caregivers (CIC) and the Columbia Journal of Gender & Law. The event focused on the challenges faced by incarcerated mothers and their children, featuring a keynote by Professor Marie Claire Van Hout on age restrictions for children living with incarcerated caregivers. Panel discussions addressed legal gaps affecting families, the impact of incarceration on children’s psychological well-being, and innovative data collection strategies to better understand and support these families. Personal narratives from impacted mothers emphasized the emotional struggles of parenting in prison and the critical need for comprehensive support systems.
The symposium underscored the urgent need for systemic reforms to prioritize the rights and well-being of incarcerated mothers and their children. Recommendations included advocating for legal protections, improving access to services, and fostering community support networks. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to drive policy changes and ensure that children’s rights are recognized within the justice system. The event concluded with a call to action for continued advocacy and engagement, emphasizing the collective strength of organizations dedicated to supporting families affected by incarceration.
To read the full report on the Second Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium, click here.