Continuing our conversation with Mary Heinen McPherson, we gain more insight into the criminalization of the poor, especially of poor women. 80% of women in jails are the primary caretakers of their children, so what happens when moms get locked away for years? The incarceration of women can have immense and far-reaching implications for families and entire communities. Join us in learning from Mary’s personal experiences on what the criminal legal system does to those most vulnerable in our society. For more information on the sources for today’s episode, visit www.whincthemovement.org to view our transcript. Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions and Fesliyan Studios.

Prior to a Michigan lawsuit brought forward by incarcerated women in 1977, women in Michigan lacked access to educational, vocational, and rehabilitative programming inside prisons. Today, there still remain great disparities between programming for men and women inside prisons. Here, we get to speak with Mary Heinen McPherson, the main plaintiff from the original case, as she shares her experiences and gives us a brief introduction into the unique issues incarcerated women face. For more information on today’s episode, visit www.whincthemovement.org. Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions and Fesliyan Studios.

Learn a little more about your hosts, Bhavana and Vennela, and how it all began!

Welcome to Women's Health, Incarcerated., also known as WHInc. Conversations and education regarding the state of the American incarceration system and women's health. Premieres July 1, 2020.