On April 24th, 2024, a historic event took place in Washington, D.C., as more than a thousand passionate individuals gathered to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Freeher march. This monumental event, organized by “The National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls,” was a significant step towards highlighting the unique challenges faced by women in prisons.
The movement aimed to advocate for the rights of incarcerated women and demand clemency for those who have been incarcerated for decades. Participants from different parts of the United States came together to create a united front in the fight for justice and mercy.
What started as a grassroots movement has grown into a powerful force advocating for the freedom of incarcerated women. The Freeher campaign recognizes that women face distinct challenges while behind bars, including issues related to reproductive health, childcare, and trauma. The march brought attention to the stories of incarcerated women and amplified their voices.
Over the years, the movement has gained momentum, capturing the attention of activists, advocates, and communities directly affected by the criminal justice system. The Freeher campaign has become an advocate for women’s rights, working tirelessly to bring about change and raise awareness about the injustices faced by incarcerated women. The event on April 24th, 2024, was a significant milestone, marking the progress made toward achieving justice and freedom for all women.
The march was an impressive display of solidarity and determination, with countless individuals from all over the country converging in Washington, D.C. to advocate for incarcerated women and their families. The participants’ dedication was evident in the fact that they traveled by chartered buses from major cities such as Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, the Bronx, Pennsylvania, and even from faraway states like Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, and Florida. Some attendees made extensive arrangements to ensure their presence, booking hotels and flights days in advance.
The diverse representation of the marchers was a testament to their broad support for the cause. People from all walks of life, backgrounds, and ages came together to address the injustices faced by incarcerated women and their families. The marchers recognized the urgency of this issue and were determined to make their voices heard.
Overall, the turnout was a tremendous success for the movement, and it underscored the importance of addressing the challenges faced by incarcerated women and their families. It was a powerful reminder that, when we come together, we can create positive change and make a difference in the lives of others.
As the march began, the participants’ energy and determination were palpable. They gathered together to raise their voices, chanting slogans like “Freeher, Free them all!” and carrying signs demanding justice and clemency for women in prisons. Some even pushed their babies in strollers, emphasizing the urgency of their cause.
The collective provided a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by incarcerated women, who often suffer from a lack of resources, healthcare, and basic human rights. Through their display of vulnerability, the marchers created a sense of empathy and solidarity among the attendees, highlighting the urgent need for change.
The march received a warm reception from the public, with many passersby stopping to express their support and admiration for the cause. The call for clemency shed light on the plight of women who have been incarcerated for extended periods, often for non-violent offenses.
Overall, the march was a powerful display of unity and determination, underscoring the need for reform and highlighting the human cost of our current criminal justice system.
One of the most impactful aspects of the Freeher march was when people shared their personal stories. Participants courageously spoke about their firsthand experiences with the criminal justice system and its toll on their lives and families. By sharing these narratives, they humanized the issue, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding incarcerated women..Passersby took photos, asked questions, and cheered on the participants. The presence of such a large and passionate crowd in the nation’s capital drew attention to the cause and generated media coverage. The march was a symbol of collective activism and a powerful reminder of the need for change.
The demand for clemency for incarcerated women is a crucial aspect of the Freeher movement. Many women serving long sentences have demonstrated remorse, personal growth, and a commitment to rehabilitation. Clemency offers them an opportunity for redemption and a chance to rebuild their lives. The march aimed to raise awareness of the urgent necessity for clemency as a means of addressing the systemic issues within the criminal justice system, highlighting racial disparities in arrests, sentencing, and access to resources. This includes advocating for the elimination of cash bail, which disproportionately affects low-income individuals, and promoting equitable access to legal representation for marginalized communities.
The Freeher 10th anniversary march in Washington, D.C., was a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for clemency and justice for incarcerated women. With a remarkable turnout of over 1,000 formerly incarcerated women and their allies, the event served as a profound testament to the resilience and strength of those impacted by the criminal justice system. By giving voice to their experiences and advocating for transformative change, the Freeher movement continues to champion a more compassionate and equitable approach to the incarceration of women. The ultimate goal is to create a society that values rehabilitation, redemption, and second chances. The gathering exemplified the potency of collective action, emphasized the need for systemic change, and further galvanized the movement’s efforts to create a more compassionate and equitable criminal justice system. Through their unwavering dedication, the participants continue to pave the way for a future where the incarceration of women is approached with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to rehabilitation.
Through their presence and unified demands, the marchers shed light on the urgent need for reforms in sentencing, rehabilitation programs, access to healthcare, and support for women impacted by the criminal justice system.
FREE THEM ALL!!! FREEHER!!
If you want to know more, click on these links:
What is the FIX Clemency Act?»
National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls»
The Whole Pie 2024»
FreeHer protesters call on Biden to ‘Bring Moms Home’ from prisons and jails»
Other Articles highlighting the event:
Build communities, not women’s prisons»
“To Be Free Is to Free Others”: Formerly Incarcerated Women Urge Decarceration»
