Reflections on the Second Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium

In November, Columbia Law School hosted the 2nd Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium, a pivotal event organized by Children of Incarcerated Caregivers (CIC) in collaboration with the Columbia Journal of Gender & Law. This year’s symposium focused on the pressing issues surrounding parental incarceration, particularly the unique challenges faced by women who give birth while in prison.

As a moderator for a panel discussion featuring women who have navigated the complex realities of motherhood in prison, I had the profound honor of facilitating a conversation that brought their experiences to the forefront. The symposium gathered an impressive array of academics, activists, and impacted individuals, each committed to advocating for the rights of children and caregivers affected by incarceration.

Setting the Stage

The day began with stirring opening remarks from Barbara A. Frey, the Emerita Director of the Human Rights Program at the University of Minnesota. She set the tone for a day of insightful discussions and reflection on the systemic injustices faced by incarcerated mothers and their children. Professor Marie Claire Van Hout’s keynote address explored the age restrictions of children living with their incarcerated primary caregivers, shedding light on the conditions of detention that often overlook the needs of these vulnerable populations.

1. Keynote: Age Restrictions of Children in Prison with a Primary Caregiver and Conditions of Detention

Speaker: Professor Marie Claire Van Hout
Time: 9:10 – 9:30 am EDT

In her keynote address, Professor Van Hout addressed the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding age restrictions for children who live with their incarcerated primary caregivers. She examined international standards and how various jurisdictions interpret these guidelines, often leading to inconsistencies that affect children’s rights. The discussion included:

• Conditions of Detention: An exploration of how prison environments can harm mothers and their children, addressing safety, health, and emotional well-being.
• Policy Recommendations: Suggestions for reforming policies to better align with the best interests of children, advocating for frameworks that support family unity and children’s developmental needs.

2. The Due Process Void: Centering the Rights of Children and Mothers

Time: 9:30 – 10:45 am EDT
Moderated by: Julie Matonich, Attorney, Co-Founder of CIC
Panelists:

• Robin Hansen, Law Professor, University of Saskatchewan
• Dr. Shona Minson, Associate, Centre for Criminology, University of Oxford
• Isabella Sanchez Di Egidio, Psychologist, Reinserta Mexico
• Benoit Van Keirsbilck, Director, Defense for Children International – Belgium

This panel focused on the legal frameworks surrounding the rights of incarcerated mothers and their children. Key discussions included:

• Legal Gaps: An analysis of the existing legal voids that fail to protect the rights of mothers and their children during incarceration and post-release.
• Impact of Incarceration on Families: Insights into how incarceration affects family dynamics and the psychological wellbeing of children.
• Recommendations for Advocacy: Strategies for legal reform and advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring that the rights of both mothers and their children are prioritized in the justice system.

Key Discussions

1. Legal Gaps in the System:The panelists highlighted significant legal voids that fail to protect the rights of incarcerated mothers and their children adequately. They discussed how existing laws often overlook the specific needs and rights of these families, leading to harmful outcomes.
2. 2. Impact on Family Dynamics:The discussion included insights into how incarceration disrupts family relationships and the psychological well-being of children. Panelists shared research findings demonstrating the long-term effects of separation on children’s emotional and social development.
3. 3. Rights of Children:The panelists emphasized the need to center children’s rights in discussions about incarceration. They argued that children should be recognized as stakeholders in the legal process affecting their lives and that their needs must be prioritized in policy-making.
4. 4. Challenges in Advocacy:The panelists addressed the challenges faced by advocates working to protect the rights of incarcerated mothers and their children. These challenges include societal stigma, lack of resources, and the difficulty of navigating complex legal systems.
5. Recommendations for Reform:The panelists proposed several recommendations for reforming policies to better support incarcerated mothers and their children. This included advocating for more comprehensive legal protections, improved access to support services, and initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma associated with incarceration.
6. Collaborative Efforts:The importance of collaboration among various stakeholders—including legal professionals, social workers, and community organizations—was emphasized. The panelists called for a united approach to advocate for systemic changes that benefit families affected by incarceration.
7. Case Studies:The discussion included case studies and examples from different jurisdictions that illustrate both successful advocacy efforts and ongoing challenges. These real-world examples helped to contextualize the theoretical discussions and provided insights into potential pathways for change.

Conclusion

Panel 2 underscored the urgent need to address the legal and systemic barriers that impact incarcerated mothers and their children. By centering the rights of these families in the conversation, the panelists highlighted the necessity for comprehensive reforms that prioritize their well-being and support their rights throughout the incarceration process.

3. Missing Metrics: Challenges and Strategies for Data Collection on Caregivers and Children

Time: 11:00 – 12:15 pm EDT
Moderated by: Professor Marie Claire Van Hout
Panelists:

• Dr. Martha Paynter, Assistant Professor of Nursing, University of New Brunswick
• Hamed Farmand, Children’s Rights Activist, Founder and President of Children of Imprisoned Parents International
• Gretta Goodwin, PhD, Director, GAO Homeland Security and Justice team
• Catalina Rufs, Coordinator, Public Policy, Center for Studies on Justice and Society, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile

This session tackled the critical issue of data collection regarding caregivers and children affected by incarceration. Highlights included:

• Data Gaps: A discussion on the lack of comprehensive data that hinders effective policy-making and advocacy for incarcerated families.
• Innovative Strategies: Panelists shared successful strategies for collecting data, including community-based approaches and partnerships with academic institutions.
• Implications for Policy: The importance of data in influencing policy changes and improving support systems for affected families.

In Panel Three, titled “Missing Metrics: Challenges and Strategies for Data Collection on Caregivers and Children,” several innovative data collection strategies were discussed to address the gaps in understanding the needs of caregivers and their children impacted by incarceration. Here are the key strategies highlighted:

1. Community-Based Approaches: Panelists emphasized the importance of engaging communities directly in data collection efforts. This approach involves collaborating with local organizations and stakeholders to gather qualitative and quantitative data that reflect the lived experiences of affected families.
2. Partnerships with Academic Institutions: Establishing partnerships with universities and research institutions can enhance data collection efforts. These collaborations can provide access to resources, research expertise, and methodologies that improve the quality and reliability of the data collected.
3. Utilizing Technology: The use of digital tools and platforms for data collection was discussed. Innovative technologies, such as mobile apps and online surveys, can facilitate the gathering of information from a broader audience, making it easier to reach families who may not have access to traditional data collection methods.
4. Focus Groups and Interviews: Conducting focus groups and in-depth interviews with impacted families helps to gather rich, qualitative data. This method allows for a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by caregivers and their children, providing context that quantitative data alone cannot capture.
5. Longitudinal Studies: Implementing longitudinal studies can track changes over time, offering insights into the long-term impacts of incarceration on families. This approach helps identify trends and patterns that can inform policy and program development.
6. Policy Advocacy for Standardized Data Collection: Panelists advocated for the establishment of standardized data collection practices across jurisdictions to ensure consistency and comprehensiveness. This would help in comparing data and making informed decisions on a larger scale.

By employing these innovative strategies, the panelists aimed to enhance the understanding of the complexities surrounding caregivers and their children, ultimately driving more effective advocacy and policy changes.

4. Parenting in Prison: A Conversation with Impacted Mothers

Time: 1:00 – 2:15 pm EDT
Moderated by: Roslyn Smith, Beyond Incarceration Program Manager, V-Day
Panelists:

• Serena Martin, Executive Director, New Hour for Women and Children
• Teresa Njoroge, Founder and CEO, Clean Start Africa
• Sava Dorritie, Former Prison Nursery Mother, Bedford Hills

This powerful panel featured firsthand accounts from mothers who have experienced incarceration. Key themes included:

• Personal Narratives: Each mother shared her unique story, detailing the challenges and triumphs of parenting while incarcerated.
• Support Networks: The importance of support systems, including community organizations and peer networks, was emphasized as vital for overcoming barriers.
• Advocacy and Awareness: The panelists discussed how sharing their stories can help raise awareness and drive advocacy efforts for policy changes that support mothers and their children.

Each of these women shared their journeys, detailing the challenges they faced while pregnant and parenting behind bars. Their stories were filled with both heartache and resilience, illustrating the stark reality of raising children in a prison environment. They spoke candidly about the emotional and psychological impact on their children and themselves, the stigma they all endured, and the lack of adequate support systems.

Key Themes from the Discussion

1. The Emotional Impact: All three mothers emphasized the deep emotional struggles that come with confinement during pregnancy and motherhood. The pain of separation from their children, the guilt of being away from them, and the fear of the future were palpable in their testimony.
2. Advocacy for Change: The panelists highlighted the critical need for policy reforms that prioritize the rights and well-being of incarcerated mothers and their children. They called for more comprehensive support systems, including access to prenatal and postnatal care, parenting classes, and family reunification programs.
3. Community and Support: A recurring theme was the importance of community support. The mothers shared how organizations like CIC and others play a vital role in providing resources, advocacy, and a sense of belonging. They stressed that no mother should feel alone in her journey.

5. Redefining Custody: Models for Mitigating Harm

Time: 2:30 – 3:45 pm EDT
Moderated by: Stuti Shah, Doctoral Candidate, Columbia Law School
Panelists:

• Monica Dhawan, Director, India Vision Foundation
• Alice Quagliato, Head of Delegation Burundi, Terre des Hommes
• María Hereñu, Researcher, Criminal Policy and Prison Violence Program, Center for Legal and Social Studies Argentina

In this session, the discussion focused on innovative models for custody and care that prioritize the well-being of children. Highlights included:

• International Perspectives: Panelists shared case studies from different countries, illustrating various approaches to nurturing family bonds during incarceration.
• Frameworks for Change: Proposed frameworks for redefining custody arrangements that mitigate harm to children and support family integrity.
• Collaborative Efforts: The necessity for collaboration among governments, NGOs, and community organizations to implement effective solutions.

6. Closing Remarks: The Power of International Networks

Speaker: Nancy Loucks, PhD, Chief Executive, Families Outside, Scotland
Time: 3:45 – 4:00 pm EDT

In her closing remarks, Nancy Loucks emphasized the importance of international collaboration and networking among organizations dedicated to supporting families affected by incarceration. She highlighted:

• Strength in Unity: The collective power of organizations working together to advocate for policy change and provide resources.
• Call to Action: An invitation for attendees to continue the conversation beyond the symposium and engage in ongoing efforts to support children of incarcerated caregivers.

Moving Towards Solutions

The discussions throughout the symposium underscored the urgent need for systemic change. It was clear that while significant strides have been made in raising awareness about the rights of incarcerated mothers and their children, much work remains. The stories shared by the panelists served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of incarceration and the necessity for compassionate policies that prioritize family unity.

Conclusion

The 2nd Annual Global Prison Nursery Network Symposium was more than just an event; it was a gathering of voices advocating for a more just world for children of incarcerated caregivers. Walking away from the symposium, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to support these families of which I am one. The courage and resilience of the women I had the honor to moderate will stay with me as we continue to push for change in this critical area of social justice.

For those interested in learning more about the issues discussed and how to get involved, I encourage you to explore the resources provided by CIC and other organizations dedicated to supporting children of incarcerated caregivers. Together, we can create a future where every child, regardless of their parent’s circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive.

1. Columbia Law School Resources: Since the event was hosted at Columbia Law School, explore their website or contact the law school’s events office for any materials related to the symposium.
2. Social Media: Follow CIC and the Columbia Journal of Gender & Law on social media platforms. They often share highlights, recordings, and important information about past events.
3. YouTube or Vimeo: Search for the event on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo, as many organizations upload recordings of their events there.
4. Contact Organizers: If you can’t find the materials online, consider reaching out directly to CIC or the Columbia Journal of Gender & Law via email. They may be able to provide you with access to recordings or transcripts.
5. Networking: If you attended the event or know participants, connect with them. They might have access to the recordings or notes from the sessions.

Conclusion

The symposium provided a rich platform for dialogue, advocacy, and collaboration among diverse stakeholders dedicated to improving the lives of incarcerated mothers and their children, highlighting the urgent need for reforms that prioritize their well-being. Each panel contributed unique perspectives and actionable insights, reinforcing the urgent need for systemic change in how we address the challenges faced by these families of children and their incarcerated parents. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the event aimed to foster a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by these families and to promote actionable solutions.

For further information regarding CIC and opportunities for involvement, visit:
Children of Incarcerated Caregivers — Our Mission.

Speaker Biographies
Access the Speaker Biographies Here