Conflict, violence, and brutality are sad but ever-present facts of institutional life for both male and female inmates.
Part 1: Please research a prison riot:
Either in the United States or abroad.
Part 2: Submit a presentation
Presentation should be on the causes of the prison riot, the outcome of the riot, and what changes were implemented at the institution after the riot. Make sure you address what could have been done to possible prevent the riot.
Part 1: Research on the Attica Prison Riot in the United States
The Attica Prison Riot took place in September 1971 at the Attica Correctional Facility in New York. The riot began when inmates took control of the prison to protest against inhumane living conditions, overcrowding, and the lack of basic rights and privileges. The inmates demanded better living conditions, improved medical care, and fairer treatment from the prison authorities.
Part 2: Presentation on the Attica Prison Riot
Causes of the Riot:
1. Inhumane living conditions: The prison was severely overcrowded, with inmates living in unsanitary and cramped conditions.
2. Lack of basic rights: Inmates were subjected to physical abuse, racial discrimination, and arbitrary punishment by the prison guards.
3. Poor medical care: Inmates received inadequate medical care, which led to the death of several individuals due to medical neglect.
4. Frustration and anger: Years of mistreatment and neglect by the authorities led to growing frustration and anger among the inmates, eventually culminating in the riot.
Outcome of the Riot:
1. Deadly confrontation: The riot resulted in the deaths of 43 people, including 10 prison guards and civilian employees.
2. Surrender and negotiations: After four days of standoff, the inmates surrendered following negotiations with state officials.
3. Investigations and trials: The Attica Prison Riot triggered investigations into the conditions within the prison and led to criminal charges against some of the individuals involved.
Changes implemented after the Riot:
1. Improved living conditions: The authorities made efforts to address the overcrowding and improve the living conditions within the prison.
2. Prison reforms: Changes were made to the policies and procedures within the prison to ensure fairer treatment and better communication between inmates and authorities.
3. Ongoing monitoring: The Attica Prison Riot served as a wake-up call for the authorities to constantly monitor and address issues within the prison system to prevent future incidents.
Prevention of the Riot:
1. Addressing underlying issues: The authorities could have prevented the riot by addressing the underlying issues of inhumane living conditions, lack of basic rights, and poor medical care within the prison.
2. Communication and dialogue: Establishing open communication channels and fostering dialogue between inmates and authorities could have helped in addressing grievances before they escalated into a full-blown riot.
3. Implementing reforms: Regular assessments and implementation of reforms within the prison system could have prevented the build-up of frustration and anger among the inmates leading to the riot.
In conclusion, the Attica Prison Riot serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and mistreatment within the prison system. It is essential for authorities to address the root causes of such incidents and implement reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of inmates in institutions.