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Prisoner Advocacy
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PRISONER ADVOCACY NETWORK

Prisoners and Advocates United for Human Rights

"It is this arrogance and contempt for decency that has brought down governments and administrations throughout history. Such contempt for justice can result only in outrage and fury from those who witness it. That we imprison more than we educate is foolish; that we abuse those we imprison is cruel; that we allow the abusers to go unpunished and unchecked is suicidal. It is this image of royalty, untouchable, lawless and unaccountable, that demands response--more than the court is willing or able to render."

Commentary on Madrid Decision
Legal Journal Vol III, No 1 (Winter, 1995)

THE PURPOSE OF PAN

To reduce crime through criminal justice reform.

WHAT ARE PAN’S SPECIFIC ISSUES?

Rights of prisoners as defined by the Constitution of the United States.
Rights of prisoners as defined by all local ordinances
Rights of prisoners as defined by institutional policies

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CONCERNS OF PAN?

Rehabilitation of prisoners
Clean and healthful living space, adequate space
Education - vocational training
Medical care
Mental health care
Nutritious and attractive food
Recreation - exercise
Drug and alcohol and other supportive programs
Counseling - preparation for release
Work programs
Prisoner self-respect and mutual respect for each other and staff
Improved communications with friends and family members

WHAT ARE THE INMATES IMMEDIATE CONCERNS?

Destruction of prisoner morale
Dirty, insect-ridden environment
Lack of education, job training, incentive programs
Lack of medical care
Poor and scanty food
Lack of recreation - exercise
No preparation for release
Lack of drug and alcohol program
Lack of work programs
Disrespectful attitude of staff
Lack of legal resources
High cost of telephone calls - lack of privacy
Interference with mail

WHAT IMMEDIATE STEPS ARE BEING TAKEN?

Preparation of Mentally Ill Defendant Bill for early filing
Preparation for filing of Bill to establish a citizenscommittee or ombudsman which will have access to prisoners who report lack of medical care

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THE NEWSLETTER INSIDE - OUTSIDE

The Newsletter is published three or four times yearly, depending on available resources. It functions as a channel through which prisoners/paralegals can help and support each other nationwide.

WHAT DO WE HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH?

By accepting and printing articles submitted by prisoners, both providing information and those requesting assistance, we are encouraging prisoners to take an active role in shaping their own lives.

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ARE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AVAILABLE?

Professional services are available only as offered by contributors. PAN has no lawyers, no paralegals, and no funds for providing legal counsel.

CONFIRMATION OF FACTS

PAN has neither the resources nor expertise to establish the truth of all statements in published submititals.
PAN cannot be responsible for inaccurate submitals, as we do not have access to the necessary information. However, we welcome letters challenging any statements which you believe to be in error. We will attempt to verify them, or admit our error.

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WHAT ARE IMMEDIATE GOALS OF PAN?

Appoint a Board of Directors
Elect Officers
Draft By-Laws

We expect to provide the opportunity for prisoners to take part in decision making through absentee ballot and proxy vote.


PAN will be registering with the Office of the Secretary of State under S.C. Code 33-31-101 Et Seq

For further information contact:

Linda
LBSRN@aol.com

or Eunice McAllister
1100 Skyland Drive #P-2
Columbia, SC 29210-8127
Tel (803) 254-9869 (Eves 8:00-10:30 EST)

Links to other SC groups

IFF ONLYS's Network Ladder
Murder Victims Families for Reconciliation
IFF ONLYS's Page
Mtambf's Page- Family~Link
The Bannister Foundation
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