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There are currently over 2 million people incarcerated in the US. But how many more wives, children, fathers and friends are waiting outside? How does incarceration affect the loved ones of prisoners? There can be financial burdens such as a mother or father supporting the whole family on one income. Emotions can also be difficult to manage. Family members may experience grief, anger and other emotional effects when there’s an empty space at the dinner table. How does the incarceration of a parent affect children? What support is available for families as they deal with the incarceration of a loved one? Today’s show is part three of our series on Native Americans in the prison system.
Guests:
Amanda Teller (Navajo) – Loved one
Marletta Pacheco (Rose Bud Sioux Tribe) – founders of the South Dakota Prisoner Support Group
Dr. Jody Becker-Green – Washington Department of Corrections program administrator
Break Music: For the Light (song) Digging Roots (artist) For the Light (album)
My son was 15 and spent 20 years of a 50 year sentence for Burglary & Robbery. The Judge said in court he didn’t care if his rights were violated he was going to make an example out of him! When he got on on parole he didn’t t even know how to pump gas! He had no transitional skills to help him succeed. We as Natives are victims of a racist and unfair Justice System. The system prioritizes the almighty dollar over a life! He was forced into a plea bargain and because we didn’t have money to hire a good attorney. Thank you for your attention. Prayers for everyone!