Celebrating Family

When I was a child, I thought family meant the individuals who looked like me, who shared my name and my bloodline. As I got older, I realized that the definition of family goes beyond namesake and DNA. In this issue of the Insider, we take time to acknowledge the people we consider family, the people who love and support us. We uplift their sacrifices and highlight their dedication. As justice-impacted individuals, we have lost much, but family is one of the few things that can’t be taken away. In the equation of incarceration, family has always been the common denominator, and ultimately, our community.

We understand the struggle that comes with supporting a loved one behind bars, and we appreciate the dedication to constantly remain in our corner. When your dwelling space is a carceral setting, support from the inside and outside is essential — whether it's letters, pictures, phone calls, cards, or a simple, “Are you okay?”

These small but important gestures remind us that we matter to someone.