Dangerous Heat Conditions for Black Children in Louisiana State Penitentiary

Core Concepts

The author argues that the Louisiana State Penitentiary is subjecting mostly Black children to dangerous heat conditions, highlighting the indifference of the state towards their well-being.

Abstract

Dozens of mostly Black boys are facing extreme heat conditions at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, leading to concerns about their health and safety. The ACLU has filed an emergency court case to remove these children from harmful environments and place them in more suitable settings. Despite ongoing issues with heat exposure and lack of proper facilities, little action has been taken to address these critical concerns.

Stats

The heat index in Angola has been over 88 degrees every day since May 21.
Nearly 300 young people are within the state’s Office of Juvenile Justice system.
About 40% of incarcerated youth in Louisiana have mental disabilities such as ADHD.
The prison system was given $2.8 million to study installing air conditioning across its facilities.

Quotes

"When I first arrived, I was locked alone in my cell and not let out except to shower for three days." - "Daniel D."
"I would not dare to keep my dog in these conditions for fear of my dog dying." - Dr. Susi U. Vassallo
"My cell is incredibly small and I have no room to move." - "Charles C."

Key Insights Distilled From

Dozens of Black Children Are Enduring Dangerous Heat Behind Bars

by Christina Ca... at capitalbnews.org 07-25-2023

http://capitalbnews.org/angola-prison-youth-heat/

Deeper Inquiries

How can society ensure that incarcerated youth are treated humanely despite their circumstances

Society can ensure that incarcerated youth are treated humanely despite their circumstances by implementing several key measures. Firstly, there should be a shift towards rehabilitation and restorative justice rather than punitive approaches. Providing access to education, mental health services, and vocational training within the facilities can help young individuals prepare for reintegration into society upon release. Additionally, regular oversight and monitoring of conditions in juvenile correctional facilities by independent bodies or organizations can help prevent abuses and ensure humane treatment. Training staff members on trauma-informed care and de-escalation techniques is crucial in creating a safe environment for incarcerated youth.

What potential arguments could be made against prioritizing air conditioning in correctional facilities

Potential arguments against prioritizing air conditioning in correctional facilities may include concerns about costs, especially in older buildings like Angola where retrofitting with air conditioning systems could be expensive. Some may argue that providing such amenities to incarcerated individuals could be seen as "coddling" them or making their stay too comfortable, potentially undermining the deterrent effect of incarceration. There might also be resistance based on the belief that harsh conditions serve as part of the punishment or deterrence factor within the criminal justice system.

How can historical contexts like Angola's past as a slave plantation influence current policies on juvenile incarceration

Historical contexts like Angola's past as a slave plantation can significantly influence current policies on juvenile incarceration. The legacy of slavery at Angola may perpetuate systemic racism within the criminal justice system, leading to disproportionately high numbers of Black youth being incarcerated there today. The historical association with punishment and control from its origins as a plantation could shape attitudes towards how juveniles are treated within its walls - focusing more on discipline and confinement rather than rehabilitation and support services tailored to their needs.