Prison journalism: Should people be released over festive holidays?

Prison journalism: Should people be released over festive holidays?Lincoln Raker was incarcerated at Pollsmoor prison from 2013 until 2016 and participated in the restorative justice programme while serving his time.

by Lincoln Raker

28-12-2023 13:17

in Prison Journalism

Christmas in prison. Image: Gerd Altmann via Pixabay

I think I should answer this question from my point of view. It is a tricky question because, initially, I believe that if someone has spent a long time in prison and has been part of a gang inside or outside, it may be challenging for them to control themselves when they are released during the holidays.

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Using Myself as an Example I believe that if I had served my time in prison and still had the same mindset I had while incarcerated, I would be carrying with me all the aspirations I developed during my time in prison. So, from my perspective, if an offender is released during the festive season, they need the best support possible, and it shouldn't just be during that time. It should be a long-term relationship that has been built over time. This way, if I ever feel like I'm about to do something I shouldn't, I can contact the prison authorities who have been looking out for me and seek their advice to make a positive decision.

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Mistakes Made I believe that yes, people should be sent home regardless of the day, month, or year, as long as they have served their time in prison. Perhaps it's a mistake to send someone to prison in the first place because I think that in prison, individuals learn valuable skills that are difficult to let go of and even more challenging to reintegrate into society.

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Staff Members During the Festive Season I think that the staff members may not care much because they want to go home and spend time with their families and friends, something we can't do. The only time you don't feel like you're in prison is when the prison doors open, and you can interact with others and momentarily forget your surroundings. But the worst part is when you can't do anything. Sometimes they give you your food and your pointe (presumably referring to some prison routine or schedule) all at once, then they count you, and after that, they lock the door and leave for home. This makes the day feel long and daunting.

Some of the staff even bring in wine and drugs, making it feel like we're not in prison, and we can momentarily forget about our circumstances and have fun with our fellow inmates.

ALSO READ: Prison Journalism: Relationships and trust in prison

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DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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