Duration in Prison: Various durations mentioned, from 8 months to 12 years.
Fights: Occur over trivial matters like microwaves, showers, or line cutting. Fighting is not preferred and often dismissed after initial confrontation.
Relationships and Companionship
Relationships are Common: Inmates develop relationships to cope with incarceration.
Prison Food & Canteen
Food Quality: Generally bad, though some items can be made palatable with canteen purchases (e.g., enchiladas).
Hygiene and Personal Care
Showers: Frequent, despite misconceptions about poor hygiene.
Makeup and Beauty: Makeup items can be purchased on canteen; makeshift makeup using colored pencils and glitter from cards. Beauty shop access for nails and hair.
Social Dynamics and Safety
Violence and Danger: Not everyone is violent or dangerous; many are there due to self-defense or unfortunate circumstances. Bullying exists but is avoidable.
Legal Experiences
Misconceptions: Legal process is often rushed with inadequate defense; many took plea deals due to poor defense and overwhelming caseloads.
Personal Story: Example of taking a plea deal due to inadequate legal support and the harsh reality of potential trial outcomes.
Perceptions and Self-Worth
Public Perception: Inmates are often seen as lowlifes, but this is a stereotype. Many were mothers, wives, and sisters who made mistakes.
Parental Relationships: Inmates maintain strong and loving relationships with their children despite incarceration.
Self-Appreciation: Recognizing personal attributes like optimism, compassion, and resilience.
Prison Culture
Community and Social Life: Despite being in prison, inmates maintain social lives, relationships, and personal pride.
Intelligence and Redemption: Inmates can be insightful and see their past mistakes, working towards better futures.
Glitter Cards: Glitter from cards is valuable; can be used or traded within the prison population for goods.