Access to Communication in North American Prisons

Lack of access to adequate communication is a major issue facing prisoners in North American prisons. In both the United States and Canada, prisoners are often denied access to the outside world and are unable to communicate with their friends and family in a meaningful way. This lack of communication can have devastating effects on prisoners and can make it more difficult for them to reintegrate into society once they are released.

One of the biggest differences between the United States and Canada when it comes to communication in prison is the availability of technology. In the United States, many prisoners have access to J-Pay tablets, which allow them to send and receive emails, access music, and books, and in some states, even make video calls. However, these tablets are not available in Canadian prisons, and prisoners are often limited on how many calls they can make. These calls also come with quite the price tag as well thanks to Bell Canada.

This lack of access to communication can have a profound impact on prisoners. It can make it difficult for them to maintain contact with their loved ones, which can have a negative impact on their mental health and well-being. It can also make it more difficult for them to access educational and vocational resources, which can hinder their ability to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society.

Furthermore, the lack of access to communication can also have a negative impact on the families of prisoners. Many families rely on their loved ones in prison to provide emotional and financial support, and the lack of communication can make it difficult for them to maintain these connections. This can put additional strain on already-vulnerable families and can make it more difficult for them to support their loved ones in prison.

In conclusion, the lack of access to adequate communication in North American prisons is a serious issue that must be addressed. By providing prisoners with access to technology and other forms of communication, we can help to reduce the negative effects of incarceration and make it easier for prisoners to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society. This is not only in the best interests of prisoners and their families, but it is also in the interests of public safety and justice.