Antone Washington and Amina Slimane, “Pregnant In Prison”
Mentor: Sean Kafer, Film, Video, Animation, & New Genres, Arts (Peck School of the)
Oral Presentation: 9:15am Union E240
The campaign addresses the critical and often overlooked issues faced by pregnant individuals incarcerated in Wisconsin’s correctional facilities. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges encountered by pregnant inmates, including lack of prenatal care, and the absence of supportive environments conducive to maternal and infant health. A key focus of the campaign is to offer legal counsel to two featured incarcerated mothers in their fight to compel the Wisconsin Department of Corrections to comply with state statute 301.049, which mandates the establishment of programs allowing incarcerated mothers to maintain physical custody of their children – one years old and younger – in the least restrictive settings. The campaign advocates for comprehensive reforms to ensure that the rights of pregnant individuals are protected and that they receive necessary medical care in accordance with constitutional standards. Through a combination of research, outreach, and collaboration with advocacy groups, we highlight the systemic failures within the criminal justice system that disproportionately affect pregnant individuals. Emphasizing the urgent need for policy changes that provide access to quality healthcare, promote dignity during pregnancy and childbirth, and explore alternatives to incarceration for pregnant individuals.