Indigenous people have the highest incarceration rates in Washington state, but they have few support systems for reintegrating back into their communities and recovering from intergenerational trauma. In this episode, we talk with the first known Indigenous person granted clemency by the state of Washington, Benjamin Brockie. We sit with the possibilities and limitations of getting clemency, life on the outside, and hopes for improving the re-entry process for Indigenous communities.

This episode features an interview with Benjamin Brockie and highlights the work of Seattle Clemency Project. Special thanks to Louie Gong for permission to use the image of his “Never Say Goodbye” Blanket, an inspired Native wool blanket available from Eighth Generation. All sale proceeds go to benefit Huy.

For transcript and show notes, go to www.choicesmedia.org

Solitary confinement is harmful to all, but it is still regularly implemented in Washington state prisons. In this episode, we confront Washington state’s use of solitary confinement and its impact on our communities, as well as the tensions around harm reduction legislation and state oversight. This episode features a conversation with Anthony Blankenship and testimony before Washington House Committee on Community Safety by Derek Collier.

Content note: this episode includes people discussing their experiences of solitary confinement that do not meet the UN "Mandela Rules," including the institutional use of drugs and shaming to control people, people suffering mental distress and suicidal ideation. Please take care while you listen.

You can find the full transcript and show notes at www.choicesmedia.org

Washington state's legislative session isn't over yet, but meaningful opportunities for criminal punishment reform are. Ralph Dunuan walks us through the bills we were following at CHOICES Media and what it means for folks on the inside and outside of prison walls.