There are many people who have not had a chance to hear the personal experiences of incarceration. With over two million behind bars in the United States alone, there are an endless number of stories surrounding incarceration and the very real challenges upon release. Many people affected by incarceration are willing to speak out but do not have a way to speak on a national platform.
Now, an Instagram account is providing a way for people affected by incarceration to have their voice be heard. Everyday Incarceration shares stories from jails and prisons, as well as from families and others either directly and indirectly affected by incarceration. By offering a platform to these men and women, Everyday Incarceration is slowly but surely moving hearts and changing minds.
Everyday Incarceration features anecdotes from loved ones in prison, their children, and their spouses on the outside. Their stories include heartbreak and love, pain and healing, past mistakes and future opportunities. Most importantly, they are all stories of hope.
The images provide a window into the lives of hundreds of people of varying ages, ethnicities, and family lives. Take a minute to scroll through the account, and you may be surprised to see the wide range of people that are affected, in some way, by incarceration.
Everyday Incarceration is doing something that was nearly impossible before social media—it is connecting people from all walks of life and bringing the stories of individuals affected by incarceration to every corner of the country.
The account provides a platform for communication between those affected by incarceration and others who may be engaging with issues surrounding incarceration for the first time. Many of those commenting on the pictures share their own personal stories of incarceration, along with words of encouragement and support.
By providing a way for communities to engage with incarceration and the real people affected by it, Everyday Incarceration is changing the way people share experiences and talk about incarceration, the justice system, and how we all are responsible for change.
Prison Fellowship also works to share the stories and news surrounding incarceration through social media. If you would like to connect with Prison Fellowship through social media, please visit our Twitter (@prisonfellowshp) or Facebook (@PFMinistries).
