I know we all share a sense of relief that the numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths in Massachusetts appear to be leveling off at last. Yet there are reminders every day that we are far from the end of this crisis and that inequities that existed before this epidemic are deepening.
This week, we want to update you on our efforts to address the threat posed by COVID-19 to one of our state's most marginalized groups - those
incarcerated in prisons and jails.
For several weeks, MPHA and the Task Force on Coronavirus & Equity have been calling for a meaningful public health response to the dangerous situation in our state's correctional institutions, which have one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infection in the country. This week, MPHA joined with 21 other advocacy groups in releasing a 10 Point Emergency Plan for addressing this public health crisis.
Already, infection rates are high at many facilities. At MTC-Bridgewater 25% of those tested were positive; at MCI-Shirley, 54% of those tested were positive; and at MCI-Framingham, 37% of the total incarcerated population were positive.
Following public health guidance for social distancing is simply not possible in our overcrowded prisons and jails. According to the MA Department of Corrections, 72% of incarcerated people sleep and 70% eat within 6 feet of each other. At the same time, increasing lock down or solitary confinement will create significant mental health consequences and cannot be considered an appropriate response.
Decarceration is the only effective way to stem the public health emergency affecting our prisons and jails. The 10 point plain calls on the Baker Administration to accelerate the release of those who have reached their parole eligibility date, are within six-months of reaching their parole eligibility date, or qualify for medical parole.
The press conference calling for action from Governor Baker received substantial press coverage, including
CBS Boston/WBZ 4, Boston25 News, WBUR and CommonWealth Magazine. The voices of formerly incarcerated individuals were prominently featured during the press conference, and we will continue to take our lead from their calls for meaningful action at the state level. I
t is important to remember that
95% of people who are incarcerated have release dates, but the public health crisis in our prisons and jails is resulting in death sentences. The need for action is urgent.
As always, we are deeply grateful for your continued partnership in this important work.
With appreciation,
