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News & Commentary about Prisoners' Rights

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The National Prison Project is dedicated to ensuring that our nation's prisons, jails, and detention centers comply with the Constitution, domestic law, and human rights principles.
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A gavel rests on the judge’s bench in a courtroom with American flag in the background.

Jul 29, 2020

Prosecutors Disappoint During the Pandemic

Prosecutors Disappoint During the Pandemic
Photo of prison cell bars.

Jul 27, 2020

Incarcerated People are Still Dying of COVID-19, and We’re Still Fighting to Save Them

Incarcerated People are Still Dying of COVID-19, and We’re Still Fighting to Save Them
Packets of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings.

Jul 22, 2020

As Overdoses Spike During Coronavirus, Treating Addiction in Prisons and Jails is a Matter of Life and Death

As Overdoses Spike During Coronavirus, Treating Addiction in Prisons and Jails is a Matter of Life and Death
Voters wearing face masks as a preventive measure wait in a line during an early voting in Monroe County, Indiana.

Jul 9, 2020

Lives are at Stake. Will Congress Act?

Lives are at Stake. Will Congress Act?
A masked protester is seen wrapped in a sign that says FREE THEM ALL

Jun 15, 2020

We Won't Address Our Mass Incarceration Crisis Until We Rethink Our Approach to "Violent Crime"

We Won't Address Our Mass Incarceration Crisis Until We Rethink Our Approach to "Violent Crime"
A incarcerated woman standing behind bars.

May 19, 2020

When a Two-Year Sentence Becomes a Death Sentence

When a Two-Year Sentence Becomes a Death Sentence
A gloved hand points to a holding cell in a Los Angeles jail.

May 12, 2020

Dallas County Officials are Leaving Vulnerable People to Catch COVID-19 in Jail

Dallas County Officials are Leaving Vulnerable People to Catch COVID-19 in Jail
A woman held at the Pulanski State Prison in Georgia plays with her children in the prison's Children Center.

May 12, 2020

During COVID-19 Crisis, We Must Prioritize the Release of Pregnant People

During COVID-19 Crisis, We Must Prioritize the Release of Pregnant People

May 7, 2020

Poetry, Prison, and the Pandemic

Poetry, Prison, and the Pandemic
Prisoners are seen walking in a hallway in a prison, one in a wheelchair

Apr 29, 2020

Federal Bill Would Release Vulnerable People from Prisons to Help Stop Spread of COVID-19

Federal Bill Would Release Vulnerable People from Prisons to Help Stop Spread of COVID-19