Inmates coordinate work strikes via social media

Recently, prison inmates in Alabama coordinated a work strike in conjunction with a protest march in Washington.

The strike followed a similar event that took place in September when inmates in 24 states used various social media platforms to coordinate a national prisoner work stoppage protesting prison conditions.

While all states prohibit inmates from possessing cell phones, many smuggle them in as contraband. Other prisoners have a family member or friend outside the system maintain their social media accounts for them.

This has lead to moves in several states to ban prisoners from having social media accounts, including levying fines against loved ones who assist them in breaking the law.

There is currently no move to do so in New Hampshire.

Supporters of banning social media use by prisoners argue that work stoppages like those organized in recent months end up costing taxpayers millions. Others express concern that inmates could use social media to stalk former victims, continue criminal activities outside prison walls, or discover personal information about prison guards and officials.

Opponents counter that prisoners have the right to both use social media and coordinate work strikes. They further contend that a ban would further alienate inmates already isolated from society, making it counterproductive to their rehabilitation.

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