Heat waves, hurricanes, and wildfires

What it's like to experience natural disasters behind bars.

Pamela,   It's hurricane and wildfire season across the United States. And when disaster hits, people held in jails and prisons are often left behind.  The disregard for the safety of incarcerated people during a crisis lies at the heart of Evacuation Plan, a graphic narrative created by incarcerated artists Jared Bozydaj and Adam Roberts, in collaboration with Products of Our Environment. The story draws on the authors' experiences at a New York State prison located near a former nuclear power plant.  Set in the fictional Terrapin Correctional Facility, Evacuation Plan asks, "What is the plan if disaster strikes?" Natural disasters pose a threat to everyone. However, this risk is acutely felt in jails and prisons, where incarcerated people have no control over how to prepare or respond. In a crisis, government officials have been quick to abandon their responsibility to keep incarcerated people safe. Even worse, most state governments' emergency preparedness plans depend on incarcerated people working disaster relief for little or no pay.  Incarcerated people have been forced to endure hurricanes and wildfires without evacuating, as well as deadly temperatures without air conditioning. And as climate change brings more severe conditions, the risks to people held in jails, prisons, and detention facilities will only grow.  Pamela, incarcerated people deserve better safety and labor protections. We hope you'll take a moment to read Evacuation Plan and join Vera in calling for a criminal justice system that centers dignity and safety for all. In solidarity,   Vera Institute of Justice  © 2025 Vera Institute of Justice. All Rights Reserved.   Vera Institute of Justice 34 35th Street | Suite 4-2A | Brooklyn, NY 11232 (212) 334-1300   Privacy Statement | unsubscribe