SAN DIEGO - After two days of being handcuffed in a tiny holding cell and desperate for food and water, Daniel Chong said he realized he had to stop wondering when he'd be let out and start thinking about how to stay alive.
Welcome to Humanity for Prisoners
Action with compassion!
Donate through Paypal
May 18, 2012A new feature on the Humanity for Prisoners web site allows anyone to make secure donations to HFP through Paypal, an e-commerce business allowing payments and money transfers to be made securely through the Internet. To see how easy it is, click HERE and then click the DONATE button underneath the Paypal logo.
HFP Blog
May 17, 2012Guest Commentary By Angela Matson:
Advances in Criminology That May Prevent Wrongful Imprisonments http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
Newsletter and Budget
May 16, 2012If you are not on our mailing list, we invite you to read
our monthly newsletter on line. Just click on the "Newsletters" tab above to view. If you would like to receive this via snail mail, please click on "Contact" and fill out the form.
Also, good news for HFP supporters: More than half
the necessary funds to pay bills for this month have arrived through gifts and
contributions. The difficult part of meeting our monthly budget comes in
the second half of the month, so your consideration before the end of May is
critical.
Thank you.
If a prisoner had his way
May 15, 2012"The
fund-raiser request I had attempted to have the Warden's Forum
prisoners do was taking too long and far more red tape than necessary,
so I decided to circumvent the madness because I know that Warden
Berghuis can expedite it once she got it. So you can look forward to
receiving some money for your endeavors from us. I believe that we can
raise a few thousand at most, and probably at the least $1,500.00. If
possible, I would try and spread it through the prison system at other
facilities that they make the same propose request to their Inmate
Benefit Fund. I learned that is is far better to do a fund raiser than
simply request the IBF to donate a certain amount of money to HFP. When
we used to try and get the IBFs throughout the system to donate money
to Prison Legal Service, we often ran into political red tape and even
had fellow prisoners thwarting our efforts. This way they get something
in return for their money and there be no strain on the IBF. If I can
pull this off, you could stand to collect $15,000-30,000 from prisoners
a year.
"Well,
I just wanted to keep you informed of my progress with the fund
raiser. I advised Deputy Warden Smith to contact you if there were any
questions."
"Baby Boy" is a lifer at Brooks.
Beginning a new week by avoiding neutrality
May 14, 2012If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Sweet Freedom
May 11, 2012The book SWEET FREEDOM, telling the story of Maurice Carter and Doug Tjapkes, continues to inspire prisoners around the world, and HFP would like to continue making the book available to prisoners. But the box is empty. We are asking for a contribution of $270.00 so we can purchase another carton and continue distribution of our book. And if we get a second donor, we ask permission to use that money toward paying other bills. Thank you.
Behind bars
May 10, 2012Medical issues continue
Two doctors prescribed my medications.
They are no longer here.
One doctor gave me a bottom bunk, because I
have two hernias. It hurts when I walk. After a recent bad attack,
the doctor said I have COPD and asthma. I was losing weight, and
weak. He gave me the medicine I needed.
Now all the new doctor talked about
was how much I was costing he state. He removed me from all my
medications.
I would like to thank you in advance for your
assistance in this urgent matter.
Behind bars
May 8, 2012On how we treat the ailing in the Michigan prison
system
I was in the hospital 4-5 weeks not moving,
not remembering anything. I was also handcuffed to the bed. 8 hours
on one leg, and 8 hours on the other. One of the officers informed me of
that fact. I was supposed to have physical therapy on my feet, but that
never happened. I suffer from numbness, tingling toes all cramping up, and
it hurts to wear socks. I usually have to push or sit in a wheelchair
because the bottoms of my feet hurt so
bad.
HFP Editorials
May 7, 2012Doug's thoughts on:
- Mental illness behind bars
- Issues with a prison chaplain
- Rip-off by an attorney
Starting the new week with compassion
May 7, 2012George Washington Carver
HFP Blog
May 4, 2012Have you experienced a major disappointment lately? See the latest HFP blog entry. http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
Nothing like being forgotten in a holding cell
May 4, 2012Handcuffed student forgotten in DEA holding cell 4 days
Do you think he has a complaint?
May 3, 2012We are working with a terminally ill cancer patient, hoping to persuade the state to commute his sentence for medical reasons. A few days ago, he sent HFP a copy of one of his grievances filed in his prison facility:
I am filing this grievance because Nurse ---------- canceled my chemotherapy treatment. On ------when I returned from seeing my Oncologist, one of the transfer officers told Nurse --------- that my Oncologist said that I was supposed to have my chemotherapy treatment on Friday. Nurse ---------- stated, "He is not going on Friday. He was supposed to have his chemo today." It is now 5 days past my chemo treatment, and I am starting to have pain in my side and my lower back. As of today, I do not know when or if my chemotherapy has been rescheduled.
And the best goes on.
Behind bars
May 2, 2012We often
talk about the evils of segregation, and I believe we must continue to
expose actual conditions in our Michigan prisons. Here is the situation
with one of our friends, who recently became involved in an altercation
that he didn't start. But, as is prison policy, both participants were
placed in segregation until the investigation can be completed. No
argument there, but listen to these conditions, described in a letter to
me that reached here through a family member:
-I haven't had a shower, shave or brushed my teeth in 6 days
-I have nothing in this strip cell, not even a towel or washcloth
-No clothing except for my shorts and a pajama bottom they found...also a giant pair of shoes so I'm not barefoot anymore
-My
Periodontal Disease is flaring up, not being able to floss. Healthcare
says it's a custody issue...I may not have a toothbrush or floss.
One week later:
-I've been rotting in the hole with nothing, stinking from bacteria, for 13 days now! And I still don't have any of my property
-I can hardly see without my glasses...they are holding all my property to dog me
-My nails are so long they feel in the way
-I have grown a beard, it feels horrible and itchy, and my moustache hair keeps getting in my mouth.
Dare to be
May 1, 2012As we end one month, and begin a new month, no pitch for
money today. God will provide. No harsh stories about
prisoners. May God be near them all.
Instead, a short message from Steve Maraboli, entitled
DARE TO BE. It's our wish from the HFP office, from all of us, to all of
you.
When a new day begins, dare to smile gratefully.
When there is darkness, dare to be the first to shine a light.
When there is injustice, dare to be the first to condemn it.
When something seems difficult, dare to do it anyway.
When life seems to beat you down, dare to fight back.
When there seems to be no hope, dare to find some.
When you’re feeling tired, dare to keep going.
When times are tough, dare to be tougher.
When love hurts you, dare to love again.
When someone is hurting, dare to help them heal.
When another is lost, dare to help them find the way.
When a friend falls, dare to be the first to extend a hand.
When you cross paths with another, dare to make them smile.
When you feel great, dare to help someone else feel great too.
When the day has ended, dare to feel as you’ve done your best.
Dare to be the best you can –
At all times, Dare to be!”
Starting the week with Mother Theresa
April 30, 2012If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
- Mother Theresa
More on why HFP needs your help
April 27, 2012I returned from a brief family vacation, to
discover that we had received only $2,000 toward our $8,500 budget this
month.
Then I went to our stack of letters from
prisoners:
-I received a torn ligament in my
left knee in 2007, it continues to be excruciatingly painful and I cannot fully
straighten my left leg any more. I've lost 20 pounds in leg-muscle
atrophy. I've been through the grievance process twice, and even filed a
deliberate indifference lawsuit and lost. They removed my meds, and charge
me $5 co-pays for asking for more. My mom tried calling the prison
doctor. He was extremely rude and said, "He don't need surgery right
now." I need a doctor to examine me. I need a consult. I need
help.
-I am writing to let you know I
have followed procedures asking to see the prison doctor re my broken right
shoulder, suffered in 2009. The response was that I am on a waiting
list? Others get to see the doctor in a few days. Over the past
three years three different doctors adamantly stated I need corrective
surgery. Can you please help me, as the pain is keeping me from sleeping
most nights more than a few hours. I believe the amount of aspirin I am
eating cannot be good on my stomach, but the pain actually causes me to tear up
at times.
-I finally was seen by the doctor
here for a tennis-ball size tumor growing on the back of my head. And
after being examined by the doctor a second time the answer was the same:
I need a surgical procedure. Yet I've been denied for the second
time. I don't know what else to do. I've tried grievances. My
mom has been calling, but they just spin her around.
-I am presently incarcerated in
the UP and I am having great difficulty trying to transfer back down to a
facility that would allow me to visit with my ailing 97 year old mother. I
will be 75 years old in a few months, but I have been unable to visit my mother
in the past couple of years due to my being so far from the Detroit area.
I have been exemplary in character since arriving at this facility, yet I cannot
receive any favorable assistance to afford me a transfer. I would
appreciate any assistance.
From a practical standpoint, how can we
continue?
From a moral and ethical standpoint, how can
we not continue?
Please pray with us for answers.
Tasers in prison
April 26, 2012From the Guy Harrison Correctional Facility to the HFP office recently -
The
corrections officers at Gus Harrison were armed with tasers as of
today. The direction from the warden is that there will be NO physical
contact with a prisoner. If the prisoner does not comply, he is to be
zapped. This is what we saw today:
A
black Muslim prisoner on his way to the control center was surrounded
by 4-6 COs on the yard. This prisoner with both hands raised above his
head and his head down in a submissive stance was zapped in the back
with the taser by an officer. There was no sign of aggression on the
part of the prisoner. Could it be that this officer wanted to be the
first to try out the taser?
Several prisoners claim to have witnessed this event, and are willing to testify to its accuracy.
Behind bars
April 25, 2012In 2005, when our organization was still operating under
the name INNOCENT! and our caseload was nationwide, we received a letter from a
New York state prisoner. In it, he asked us to look at the case of Norman
who, he claimed, was innocent...and the reason he knew Norman was innocent was
because he was the one who actually committed the crime. After we called
attention to the case, a midwest innocence agency started on the case,
and then suggested that Norman go to an Innocence Project nearer to him in the
east. That was in 2005, and even though we have now limited our work to
the State of Michigan, we have remained in contact with Norman, who is still in
prison. Last week HFP received this message from him:
Listen, I have an update for you. The
actual killer that committed this crime has just been released from
prison. Isn't that something? I go before the Parole Board next
week, and watch them keep me in prison while they released a guilty
killer.
Shameful
April 24, 2012The U.S. now has more than 6-million people in
jail---a higher number than the Soviet Union imprisoned in the gulag archipelago
during Stalin's reign.
Time Magazine
Update
April 23, 2012Doug took a brief vacation, but HFP didn't. See today's blog entry: http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
Starting the week with Winston Churchill
April 23, 2012All the great things are simple, and many
can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy,
hope.
Winston Churchill
An unexpected gift
April 20, 2012Two items came in the mail on the same day---your
newsletter and my tax refund. I think you need this money more than I
do. Blessings to you, and thanks for all you do.
H
Michigan & the death penalty
April 19, 2012
For 165 years, capital punishment has not been an option for state juries.
Why we still need your support this month
April 18, 2012"His disease is called Guillain-Barre. The major problem with the prison is they are refusing to give my father-in-law his medication. He has already lost 10 pounds in 10 days. He has a severe burning sensation in his hands and feet, and if he is off his meds he will soon have to be in a wheelchair. His disease is very rare, and not many people have it. Thanks for being by our side, and not giving us the run-around like everyone else."
Marquette Monthly reviews The Prisoner's Prayer Book
April 17, 2012
| Superior Reads by Tyler Tichelaar The Prisoner’s Prayer Book Editor’s Note: Tichelaar is the author of My Marquette. All books reviewed are available online or in local bookstores. For book review submission guidelines, visit www.mmnow.com |
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writing prayers for them. She realized the importance of prayer for
prisoners and states in the book, “I met men who were eager for the
merest connection of a handshake. No matter their outer bravado, I saw
men who feared there was no one ‘out there’ who cared if they lived or
died.”MDOC stops humiliating strip searches
April 16, 2012Huron Valley prison for women stops routine strip search described as "sexually humiliating." Click HERE to read.
Beginning the new week with Albert Einstein
April 16, 2012"In
matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and
small problems, for issues concerning the treatment of people are all
the same."
-Albert Einstein
Connecticut votes to repeal death penalty
April 13, 2012 |
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U.S. | April 12, 2012Death Penalty Repeal Goes to Connecticut GovernorAfter more than nine hours of debate, the Connecticut House of Representatives voted on Wednesday to repeal the state’s death penalty, following a similar vote in the State Senate last week. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, a Democrat, has said he will sign the bill, which would make Connecticut the 17th state — the 5th in five years — to abolish capital punishment for future cases. |
Why HFP needs your continued support
April 12, 2012Several years ago a prominent innocence agency urged us to
look at the case of Edward, in Michigan. We did, and agreed that it was a
compelling case. It definitely appeared this man was innocent. But
his support eventually petered out. Nothing happening now. We just
received this message from Edward in a letter:
Thank you very much for the (prayer)
book. I felt better after I read it. I know that I am not
alone. Through the years of being behind bars (14), I also have to ask
God, "What have I did in life that I deserve this punishment? I know, God,
know I am innocent." But I have not got that answer yet. Sometimes
we fly high, enjoying great success. But then suddenly we fall into deep
disappointment and the hurting reality of failure, leaving our hearts
wondering if there is anything worth looking forward to. Again, I say
thank you.
The HFP 100 Club
April 11, 2012We are still dreaming about Barb's idea that if 100 people would contribute $100 a month to HFP, we'd have our budget covered and we could spend all of our time working with prisoners. And we're inching our way up there. Because so many of our supporters are poor, some have asked if they could still participate at a lower level, and of course our answer is yes. Some are coming in at $50 a month, two at $40 a month, and two at $5 a month. Our goal is to hit at least $8,500 a month so that we can pay our bills and continue on for another month. Brian, David, Andre', Harry, Adam, Troy, James, Kevin, Anne, Dolores, Vicki, Patricia, and many others are hoping we'll be there. Every penny that you give goes right straight into advocacy...no frills. Thanks for your partnership.
Final Easter thought
April 10, 2012No wonder he identified with prisoners!
Wrongly convicted.
An innocent man executed.
but praise God,
He is risen! He is risen,
indeed!
Starting the new week with MLK
April 9, 2012Human progress is neither automatic nor
inevitable...every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice,
suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of
dedicated individuals.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Shocking injustice
April 6, 2012HFP note: Both Rob Warden, Executive Director of the Center on Wrongful Convictions, and writer Steve Mills of the Chicago Tribune, worked personally with Doug Tjapkes on the Maurice Carter Case a decade ago.
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April Phenomena
April 5, 2012April showers is just part of it.
Spring Break---I have visions of our
newsletter envelope buried in your stack of mail. Please watch for
it. Matt did a great job with it this month.
Tax Refunds---When the check arrives,
please remember HFP. We're going to need some generous assistance in
April, and your special gift can make the difference.
Spring Housecleaning---Please consider
donating one item to HFP. All you have to do is send us a picture.
Matt will sell it on Craigslist, the purchaser can get it from you, and your
gift can be sent to us.
Happy Spring!
From an inmate on death row
April 4, 2012While HFP no longer works outside of the State of
Michigan, I have been at the Polunsky death row unit in Texas, and have a soft
spot in my heart for these people. This week came this plea from one of
the residents:
We are on lock-down again. Because we
are locked down, we do not get hot meals...we get stuck with cold sacks. I
need you to ask our supporters to email the warden and complain about the meals
they are feeding us. They are supposed to be 720 calories per meal.
Well, the first day they served for lunch 1 corndog, 1 slice of bologna, and 1
square of cornbread. Tuesday was 1 piece of chicken and 8 dried
prunes. Wed, for dinner, 1 baked potato, 1 cheese sandwich, about 4 spoons
of raisins. They are doing this because they know no one is going to
complain. They are feeding us worse than animals. Small children are
fed more than this at school.
March Madness review
April 3, 2012No question about it, March came in like a lion, and never
let up. It felt like we were out of breath at the HFP office, so we
reviewed the activities report.
63 requests for help, double the number of some
months.
18 new requests for assistance from prisoners right here
in Michigan, which we personally deal with. Nearly double our
average.
Besides that, there were unusual
heart-breaks.
One of our friends behind bars got into a fight and
seriously injured a young man. Word is the prisoner will lose an
eye. A mother of a prisoner who we helped to go see her ailing son was
seriously injured en route, by two kids texting in a car that ran a
stop light.
But there were victories. We were able to assist an
elated prisoner on a re-entry location, and the terminally ill cancer
patient for whom we testified in a public hearing was sent home. Praise
God!
In addition to all of that, your HFP was involved in a
conference with a state legislator, in a high-level committee meeting seeking a
new death penalty stance for a church denomination, and in conducting two
restorative justice group sessions with Michigan prisoners.
We weren't idle in March.
Contributions to this organization don't go for
administrative costs. They go right straight to the firing line.
Every day.
Holy Week thoughts
April 2, 2012Jim is a fine attorney, a good friend, and a beautiful
Christian. As a layworker in his church, he was in the sanctuary on
Saturday preparing for the Palm Sunday service, but it was obvious that HFP was
on his mind. I received this touching message:
I built a cedar cross and put it in the church
today. I bought some square masonry nails. Tomorrow during the
services, people will be encouraged to write a regret, resentment, betrayal, or
anything they want, on a slip of paper and nail it to the cross to be crucified
with Christ. On Saturday, Pastor and I will remove the slips from the
cross, read them aloud, say prayers, and burn the
slips.
It can be an emotional experience for many
folks. Just thinking about the regret or whatever can bring tears, never
mind writing it down and then nailing it to the
cross.
I thought of you and your work as I laid the
cross on the three stools this morning in the sanctuary and it hit
me.
For you and the families you help, there just
aren't enough nails...
Blessings and strength to you, my
friend.
Jim
Beginning Holy Week with forgiveness
April 2, 2012"It is very easy to forgive others their mistakes; it takes more grit and gumption to forgive them for having witnessed your own."
- Jessamyn West
Roller Coaster
March 30, 2012Stick with us. There's sure to be another ride next week. See's Doug's blog entry today: Click HERE to view.
Behind bars
March 30, 2012Think it's a jungle out there, where your struggling each
day? Consider what it's like behind bars.
...while coming out of my cell for a shower,
me and an officer I had words with a couple days prior, said "Today is your day,
MF," trying to get a response out of me, but I didn't pay any mind to what he
meant until I started washing up. As I was turning around I seen five
prisoners advancing toward me, and one had a knife on, but I didn't think
nothing of it and continued shaving until I got stabbed in my back. I
turned around and a prisoner stabbed me again in the arm and stomach. I
grabbed him and we struggled for the knife...he dropped it and they all
ran. I got some clothes on and tried to make it to my room. I fell
in front of my cell. Officers came up there smiling, and asked what
happened. I told him my neighbor stabbed me. The officer told me to
put pressure on it, and called for some medical help. I went to the
hospital, and they had tubes in me. When I returned, the staff accused me
of assaulting them so I was put in the hole.
This is daily routine. No surprise to anyone behind
bars.
Behind bars
March 29, 2012This whole situation in our unit needs to be exposed...it's been going on way too long. I have maintained a log of many different events of people being raped, assaulted, robbed, drugs and many other illegal activities, and I would be willing to talk with the right people who could do something about it. I am not afraid to stand up for what's right and expose those officers in charge, and all the complacent guards who passively allow things to happen while they're either sleeping, playing cards, or doing Suduku puzzles. There are so many kids being victimized here it sickens me, and I'm tired of seeing these prison administrators allowing it.
Maurice Carter play gets standing ovation
March 28, 2012Honolulu - The first fund-raising event for the Hawaii Innocence Project has been labeled a huge success. A staged reading of JUSTICE FOR MAURICE HENRY CARTER, a play written by award-winning Toronto playwrights Donald Molnar and Alicia Payne, was presented Monday, March 26, at Manoa Valley Theatre. The performance featured local actors Neal Milner as Doug Tjapkes and James Harbor as Maurice Carter, as well as an acapella choir from a local sorority and a supporting cast of six.
Innocence Project Director Virginia Hench reports that the
event was a sellout in the 160-seat auditorium. She said audience response
was enthusiastic. The performers were given a standing
ovation.
Playwrights Molnar and Payne made the long trek to Hawaii
for the performance.
Also in the audience were Tjapkes' son Greg, his wife
Tracie Ann, and their sons Cole and Sky.
The play was directed by Russell Motter. Music
Director was Libra Forde.
On why our prisons remain so full
March 27, 2012My daughter is still incarcerated. This is her 18th year. She has been in prison since she was 14 years old, for being at the scene of a crime. It has been a long 18 years, and I know God has kept her safe from harm's way. It is time that they allow my daughter to come home to her family, to live her life, to have a career, and finally to be free. She has done well over the time she needed to do for her involvement. If we had been in a larger city or had money she never would have served such a sentence. Isn't 18 years long enough to give a 14-year-old girl for just being there? She was just a child! Please help.
As we start the week, give it a try!
March 26, 2012It's impossible, said pride. It's risky, said experience. It's pointless, said reason. Give it a try, whispered the heart.
-Anon
From the mouths of prisoners
March 23, 2012While we were wringing our hands over the fact that not
one dollar arrived in the mail last week to support HFP, the one piece of mail
from a prisoner on Saturday said this:
I want to thank you and the rest of the staff
there for all of the past help, and the book THE PRISONER'S PRAYER BOOK. I
am very thankful for your organization. You all are appreciated more than
you will ever know. May God continue to bless and direct
you.
Whoever said the good guys always win?
March 22, 2012See Doug's Wed eve. blog entry: Click HERE to view.
Message from Doug
March 21, 2012Many people still remember the famous Uncle Sam poster
dating back to the Second World War. His eyes followed you wherever you
went, and his finger pointed straight at you. And the message was
simple: We need you.
That's where HFP is today. We need you.
We need you to help make up the drastic drop in
donations last week.
We need you to donate something good for our
Craig's list sale. Email a picture of the item to Matt today.
We need you for prayer support as we tackle thorny
prisoner issues.
We need you to remember prisoners in your
prayers.
I close with the words of one of our supporters, in a note
to me today:
It's appalling that the corrections system has
been degraded into warehousing of human beings in ways that animal rights
activists would complain about even for puppies, or chickens. These
children also are made in the image of God. Just because they are out of
our sight does not mean they are out of God's
mind.
Behind bars
March 21, 2012An urgent plea to HFP
Please help. We're very concerned about a
young man in here only 20 years of age. We are the only thing
standing between him and several homosexual predators pressing down on
him. We have brought the matter to the attention of our superiors, and
we've prepared a written statement about what we have witnessed. Two of
the main predators are now having two other young gang-members threaten this
lad, calling him a snitch and a coward. They continually trying to make
him fight them by calling him degrading names, so the other predators can zero
in on him as being weak and soft because he won't stand up for
himself.
We have tried talking with the staff and no one is
willing to do anything about it. This young man is really a good kid, in
on a minor charge. If he can get through his necessary classes the Parole
Board will probably cut him loose. But for now, here he sits in prison
with all these vultures swooping down on him. We don't know what else we
can do. This kid is under such stress. Pray that God will watch over
him and protect him. Maybe the state police should be notified. The
fact that people like the supervisors here passively allow young people to be
victimized at this prison makes them just as criminally culpable as the perps
who are committing the crimes. Some of the guards warned that this would
happen when the state brought in all the older predators together with the young
guys. The administration should be made to do the right thing and get rid
of the predators from an open dorm environment where they can pretty much get
away with whatever they want.
Article on false confessions
March 20, 2012Rob Warden, Executive Director of Northwestern University's Center on Wrongful Convictions, was a key player in the battle to free Maurice Carter, and served on the first Board of Directors for INNOCENT, now known as HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS.
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It's spring housecleaning time
March 19, 2012
And that gives you a beautiful opportunity to help us.
It's so simple. You
choose one highly desirable article that you would be willing to donate
to HFP. But don't send it, just take a picture of it and email it to us
at matt@humanityforprisoners.com.
Our internet expert Matt
will put it up for sale, probably on Craig's List. The purchaser can
work out pickup arrangements with you...but the dollar will help to
cover our shortage for this month. It's a winning situation for
everyone.
Simply email Matt with a
brief description, a value, your location and a contact phone number
for those interested in purchasing your donation. HFP will handle
listing the item, at which point interested parties will contact you for
more information or to purchase the item. Once the item is sold, send a
check to Humanity for Prisoners for a tax-deductible donation.
Starting the week with kindness
March 19, 2012When you are kind to others, it not only changes
you---it changes the world.
Rabbi Harol Kushner
The full HFP plate this week
March 16, 2012-A prisoner coughing so bad his throat is
bleeding
-A prisoner so sick he lost 45 lbs in 15
days
-An ignored state promise to free a
prisoner
Meanwhile, back in the office...
-After a beautiful surge of generosity in
week 1, gifts stopped in week 2 of March
-As of today, there's not enough money in the
bank to pay March bills
-There's no fundraiser planned for April...how
will we survive another month?
From the mouths of prisoners: On illness and ailing
March 15, 2012"I am very sick. I have been without urgently needed medicine since March 2nd. The higher-up health care people are overruling the prison doctor's prescription. Because the Dutch Consulate is taking no legal action, (I'm a Dutch citizen), the prison staff are all laughing and making fun. So that's why I am made to suffer like this. Please forgive me but I'm really sick coughing so much I keep making mistakes typing. I can't even talk on the phone. My lungs ache, and the past several days I've been coughing up blood because my throat is raw. Pray for my predicament, because my lungs continue to fill."
On the quality of MDOC healthcare
March 14, 2012From a seriously ill Michigan female prisoner, who is in
constant pain and discomfort:
My bunkie informs me I was so sick for 3-4 days and healthcare
only gave me milk of magnesia. I was throwing up, passed out, and fell
down some steps. Several of the nurses have told me the results would have
been better if healthcare would have sent me out earlier.
NY Times: Prisons rethink isolation
March 13, 2012 |
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| March 11, 2012 Prisons Rethink Isolation, Saving Money, Lives and Sanity By ERICA GOODE A growing number of states are rethinking the use of long-term isolation and re-evaluating how many inmates require the punishment that's been long opposed by humanitarian groups. |
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Beginning the new week with a fresh start
March 12, 2012"A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new."
- Albert Einstein
Today is STOP PRISONER ABUSE DAY
March 9, 2012Today is STOP PRISONER ABUSE DAY in Phoenix, Arizona. Coordinator Julie Acklin told HFP's Doug Tjapkes: We will carry crosses to mourn the dead, and a coffin to bring awareness of the crisis in our prisons: lack of health care and mental health care. Many are dying and being denied life-saving treatment for Hep C and other diseases. My son sits now on his bunk in prison, staring into space. He has night tremors, and frequently falls off his bunk (top), due to inadequate treatment. Please hold a sign today in your state or county to show your support. Families of affected prisoners will take part in this march.
Say a prayer for these courageous parents in Arizona, and
add new meaning to their efforts by supporting HFP in its fight for appropriate
health care in Michigan prisons.
It keeps getting worse
March 9, 2012We thought we had some pretty extreme cases of inadequate
medical care in Michigan prisons this week, and then came the call to our office
yesterday afternoon.
Brenda was hoarse from crying so long after opening a
letter from her son, in prison in Marquette. Her attorney suggested she
call HFP.
Ronald's earlier letters to his mom are missing, so by the
time she opened this one, he had been bleeding for 14 days. That's right,
bleeding. From the rectum. In his urine. And throwing up
blood.
She called his counselor, who admitted the lad was very
sick, but said he was powerless to get him to a hospital. And until then,
the prison nurses have placed him on a liquid diet. He's in the hole, by
the way. Perfect spot for a critically ill prisoner.
Based on initial reaction from the professionals we've
consulted, this man should be rushed to the ER.
We're still trying to make sure our information is
accurate. We've begun the process of pushing buttons and pulling strings,
hoping to find reason and common sense. If our information is basically
accurate, time is of the essence.
Start your day today with a prayer for Ronald, for Brenda,
for HFP, and for our prison system.
On HFP's words to the Parole Board
March 8, 2012Doug:
At HFP, we try to prepare comments in a
Parole Board interview that genuinely reflect the character of the
inmate.
Ann:
You made me realize something about myself
when you spoke at my PB interview. "Ann gives of herself to other
prisoners. What could possibly be the reason for with-holding this person
from society where she can and should be making positive
contributions?" That statement made me think I am somebody and worth
a great deal to whatever community I reside in. If I can do for someone
else what you have done for me, with some information or a kind and uplifting
word, then today I am the person you saw in me. Thank you, and thank God
for you!
Lock 'em up and send taxpayers the bill
March 7, 2012Our friend Pat Shellenbarger, still telling it like it is. Click HERE to view.
March Madness
March 6, 2012While basketball teams and politicians are waging huge battles this month,
a tiny war by comparison is being fought in Grand Haven, Michigan.
HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS is fighting to stay alive.
It was my unpleasant duty to inform our Board of Directors last month that
we would have to raise $10,000 in contributions in the month of March in order
to remain in operation. I dislike passing along "either/or" messages in
this business, because in the business of charitable organizations, your back is
always against the wall. We are always just a step or two away from
crashing. But the issue took on more urgency after the first two months of
the year, when our collections were so low that we used up much of
our surplus from generous end-of-the-year gifts.
The situation is simple. We need $8-10,000 a month to maintain our
existing operation, or $100,000 a year. But with our small supporter list
of 350 people, we can realistically anticipate gifts of $2-5,000 a month.
Then, when a month comes along like January, in which we received less than
$2,000, we take a nosedive.
But there is good news:
-Late collections in February slightly improved our position
-HFP has a sterling reputation among Michigan prisoners
-HFP is doing amazing things with your money
-HFP supporters are rallying with ideas.
Your ideas re gifts, grants, fund-raisers, and the future, are always
welcome.
Your prayers and your support are mandatory.
Thanks for believing in us and our work. God blesses us daily.
"Enough," he exclaimed, "enough!"
March 6, 2012After four medical cases crossed Doug's desk in one
day.
Prisoner #1
I have a tennis-ball size tumor on the
back of my head. I've complained of dizzy spells that are staggering,
blurred vision, headache, sleeplessness and pain. The doctor said I need a
surgical visit, but he later told me the visit was denied. They don't want
to pay for it.
Prisoner #2
Mr. B. just called in a panic about
anti-allergy medication he needs to help him breathe. The doctor has left
the institution because of the refusal of the prison to do what he
prescribes. The nurses say the medication can only be prescribed by
doctors, but THERE IS NO MEDICAL DOCTOR! He has 2 more pills
left.
Prisoner #3
My neuropathy comes from being
restrained in one position for a long time. I was in the hospital 4-5
weeks handcuffed to the bed, 8 hours on one leg and 8 hours on the other.
Prescribed physical therapy never happened. I suffer from numbness,
tingling toes all cramping up, and it hurts to wear socks. I usually have
to push or sit in a wheelchair because the bottoms of my feet hurt so
bad.
Prisoner #4
I suffered a broken shoulder in
2009. In addition there was extensive damage to the ligaments, tendons and
right shoulder socket. Instead of getting surgery I was returned to
prison after the exam, and I never received anything more than a brace to
wear. Three doctors insisted I needed corrective surgery, two told me that
the MDOC doesn't have the money. And one told me to suck it up and wait
until I am released. I currently sleep 3-4 hours a night before I
awaken in pain. I have problems getting dressed and
showering.
The Michigan Department of Corrections.
Expecting Excellence Every Day.
Starting the week seeking full justice
March 5, 2012"Partial justice may exist with hatred; full justice requires charity."
~ AUSTIN O'MALLEY
From the mouths of prisoners
March 2, 2012Things in the MDOC have been crazy.
Effective February 1, they stopped serving us salt and pepper packets in the
dining room, to save money. Instead, those with money will be able to
purchase cardboard salt and pepper shakers in the prisoner store. What
does the indigent prisoner do to get salt and pepper?
Amazing.
Also, effective February 1, they raised the store
prices by 5%, so they claimed. When we did the cost comparison, though, we
found repeated violations of the 5% price increase. Nobody seems concerned
about the price gouging. Amazing.
Then, there's the first year legislator who, in
his infinite wisdom, introduced legislation to remove the 6% sales tax exemption
granted Michigan prisoners for decades. Amazing.
NY Times on dementia behind bars
March 1, 2012
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| February 26, 2012
The Vanishing Mind: Life, With Dementia By PAM BELLUCK At the California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo, prisoners doing time for murder are caring for inmates with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. |
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February prison visit #1
February 29, 2012"I don't think a round of applause is
enough for our guest speaker," said inmate Ramano at the Thumb Correctional
Facility. "I believe his work at Humanity for Prisoners deserves a standing
ovation!" And with that prompt, 100 men dressed in prison garb stood and
cheered. I had just finished my part of the HFP presentation in a special
assembly, arranged by the chaplain at Michigan's prison in Lapeer.
I reviewed impressive case after case where HFP made a difference.
I reviewed impressive case after case where HFP made a difference.
And then I challenged the prisoners,
explaining that some of the nicest people I know live behind bars, and some of
my best friends are in prison. People on the outside need improvement in their
perception of prisoners. Together, the prisoners and HFP must do a better job of
public relations, telling all of the good things prisoners are doing. I pledged
to help if they would agree to help.
And then the chairman of the board of HFP, Dr. Dan Rooks, a clinical psychologist, gave an entirely different type of presentation. He challenged the inmates to take a good look at themselves. To own up to their situation. He told of the course he is running twice a month at another prison, helping prisoners to learn to forgive themselves, to learn to love themselves, and to openly consider the issues of restorative justice. This especially includes how the crime impacted not only the victim, but the community. He concluded with a powerful piece written by one of his friends in the course, who reflected on his crime and on his pathway of growth since then. It was beautiful, and it touched the hearts of these men.
In a question and answer session, both of us gave straight forward answers to excellent questions. Dan and I were right where we belonged...surrounded by prisoners.
The men lined up to shake our hands and to thank us for coming.
One of the guys who helped to put this program together called the next morning to say the men are already organizing a fund raiser for HFP. They want to do their part to keep us going.
HFP doing its thing. And the President and Board Chair loving every minute of it.
And then the chairman of the board of HFP, Dr. Dan Rooks, a clinical psychologist, gave an entirely different type of presentation. He challenged the inmates to take a good look at themselves. To own up to their situation. He told of the course he is running twice a month at another prison, helping prisoners to learn to forgive themselves, to learn to love themselves, and to openly consider the issues of restorative justice. This especially includes how the crime impacted not only the victim, but the community. He concluded with a powerful piece written by one of his friends in the course, who reflected on his crime and on his pathway of growth since then. It was beautiful, and it touched the hearts of these men.
In a question and answer session, both of us gave straight forward answers to excellent questions. Dan and I were right where we belonged...surrounded by prisoners.
The men lined up to shake our hands and to thank us for coming.
One of the guys who helped to put this program together called the next morning to say the men are already organizing a fund raiser for HFP. They want to do their part to keep us going.
HFP doing its thing. And the President and Board Chair loving every minute of it.
Prayer request
February 28, 2012Often I come to some of
you privately when I have a special prayer request. There wasn't
time to do that in this particular case. I am on my way to Jackson,
Michigan, to testify in a public hearing to determine whether the sentence of
Tracy Snay should be commuted for medical reasons. She's dying of
pancreatic cancer.
It's an
emotional moment for me. The last time I was at this location---the
Duane Waters Health Center---I walked Maurice Carter through the front door and
into freedom in 2004. He died three months
later.
For your information, I
don't even know Tracy Snay. I'm here because her inmate friends pleaded
with me to make the drive. Our board chairman Dan Rooks and I spoke to
these prisoners at the women's facility just last Saturday, and when I talked
about helping inmates seeking medical commutations, this case came up.
The state is sure to argue
that this woman, who wasn't even well enough to appear in court to enter her
plea, is a threat to society.
I'll argue that the state
will save thousands, and she will get appropriate hospice care, if she is
released. She's very ill, and she's a child of God. Her friends are
backing our efforts with their prayers.
It's what HFP does.
Starting the new week by doing something
February 27, 2012"In a moment of decision the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing."
- Theodore Roosevelt
Two unlikely luncheon meetings
February 24, 2012Details in Doug's latest blog entry. Click HERE to view.
HFP featured on local news
February 23, 2012Humanity for Prisoners was featured last night on Fox 17 news out of Grand Rapids. To watch the video, click HERE. Thanks to Carl Apple for putting the story together.
People of Faith in Michigan gather in Lansing in opposition to prison privatizat
February 22, 2012Media contact: Natalie Holbrook, nholbrook@afsc.org, 734-330-0555
Michigan's interfaith religious leaders and people of faith have come out in opposition to House Bills 5174 and 5177 and publicly urge lawmakers to reject prison privatization.
WHAT: Michigan faith communities come together to publicly oppose a move that would privatize a state prison and reward a contract to the GEO Group, Inc., despite its appalling track record in Michigan and around the nation.
WHEN: Thursday, February 23rd, at 9:00 am
WHERE: Capitol Building Room 426 (Lansing, MI)
WHY: Faith leaders express opposition to the practice of incarcerating people as a means of generating corporate profit. Private prison companies make money through contracts that are based on per diem rates. The more people they incarcerate for longer periods of time, the greater their revenue. This creates a situation where private prison companies fail to support criminal justice reform efforts, such as alternatives to incarceration, as these efforts reduce the number of people who are incarcerated and thus pose a threat to their corporate profit margins.
From multiple faith perspectives and from a diversity of belief and tradition, faith leaders will call on elected and appointed officials from the State of Michigan to stop the move towards the privatization of its public correctional facilities. Faith leaders will offer their collective voices against the multi-billion dollar prison corporations. They will stand up for the dignity and worth of every person and share why they simply cannot justify an industry whose 'product', in their vernacular, is human beings.
The hearing is sponsored by Keeping Faith Michigan: A coalition of faith groups and organizations.
Confirmed Speakers include:
Tisha Moore, Unitarian Universalist (opening prayer)
The Rev. Nicole Jones, Apostolic Church
Chuck Warpehowski, Interfaith Coalition for Peace and Justice (tentative)
Natalie Holbrook, American Friends Service Committee (Quaker)
And other people of faith and good will
The Maurice Carter/Doug Tjapkes play goes to Hawaii
February 21, 2012
Can HFP survive?
February 20, 2012How can HFP continue? Can it survive? A poignant entry by Doug in the HFP blog. Click HERE to read.
Starting the new week as an optimist
February 20, 2012No pessimist ever discovered the secrets of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit. Helen Keller
Behind bars
February 17, 2012A commentary on water and sewer issues at Michigan's women's facility -
The
sewer system here has a huge septic system. Since the facility here
has housed more female prisoners than it ever did male, the strain on
the system has it periodically backing up, causing not only problems and
overflowing toilets in the housing units, but a real health hazard in
the chow hall. You know that if the overcrowding strains the septic
system, it also strains the water supply. HF also has hot water heat,
so all in all, our heat goes out, our hot water is not reliable...I
cannot tell you how many times I have had to take a cold shower, or wait
to take a shower because the water was down. I swear, MDOC has never
heard of installing thermostats. Each time there is a problem with the
water, heat or sewer, maintenance must be called in...at the officer's
leisure, of course. While inmates wait. It doesn't seem to register
with the officers that they can go home at the end of their shift, WE
HAVE TO LIVE HERE! Last night seg toilets backed up with sewage (my
bunkie had to go clean there at midnight), and the toilets in the
fieldhouse backed up even into the drinking fountain.
Women's group check sends books to prison
The Grand Rapids Chapter of Woman's Life has presented a check for $1,000
to HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS to support a book project for prisoners. The
check was presented to HFP President Doug Tjapkes in a brief ceremony Monday
night in Grand Rapids. The money had been raised in a movie night
fund-raiser sponsored by the organization last month, in cooperation with a
Grand Rapids theater.
In thanking the organization, Tjapkes said the money will enable HFP to
send copies of the newly published book, THE PRISONER'S PRAYER BOOK, to 80
Michigan prisoners. The HFP staff is already preparing the names and
addresses of prisoners with whom the agency has been working. The books
will be sent by the publisher, Principia Media. The newly released book
consists of 100 prayers written by Louise Ann Sipes Reichert based on actual
accounts from prisoners, and is available through HUMANITY FOR
PRISONERS.
Tjapkes encouraged churches and service clubs to follow the lead of Woman's
Life to ensure a continued flow of books into Michigan prisons. 8 books
will be sent to prisoners for every $100 contribution, and HFP will pay shipping
costs.
Volunteer needed
February 15, 2012Humanity for Prisoners is looking for a volunteer or group of volunteers to step up for us. Donations for January were $5,000 short of what is necessary, and February’s snowmobiling fundraiser is falling victim to the unusually warm winter.
With those factors at play, HFP is seeking an organizer to take the reins as we put together an auction fundraiser to take place in West Michigan. This organizer would assist in collecting donations for the event, coordinating setup with the facility that will host the event, and doing the legwork so Doug can focus on HFP’s main mission, to work with prisoners and their families.
Please carefully consider taking this challenge on, your willingness to help will make a huge difference for HFP and all the prisoners the organization works with. If you would like to know more, please email Doug (thedouger@chartermi.net) or Matt (matt@humantyforprisoners.org).
Behind bars
February 14, 2012When 25 prisoners asked us to help them take action
against an abusive guard coming to work with alcohol on his breath, we agreed to
help, but warned that retaliation would be strong.
On my desk is a letter from their leader:
My stepmother died last month. I didn't
find out until a couple days ago. I couldn't call home because of the
games being played with my phone in retaliation for our complaint. They
have been transferring everyone involved with that complaint. They wanted
to hurt me for helping to expose what was going on, and they did. I
didn't get a chance to speak with my stepmother before she passed. I was
devastated. I've been in bed for many days. I've been walking the
halls of regret. That was too much.
Robert
Starting the new week with a megaphone
February 13, 2012"God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world" ~ C.S. Lewis
Photo of Kevin
February 10, 2012
When this picture of our friend Kevin DeMott appeared in the Detroit Free Press on Sunday, one of our supporters quickly responded:
This is Jesus. This is "the least of
these." Not only in the sense that we are to serve these as if they were
Jesus, AND in the way Jesus himself would serve him, but also in the very real
sense that if Jesus walked the State of Michigan today, this is what would
happen to him! Notice Jesus, already at the age of 12, was "disobeying
direct orders" and displaying "insolence." And it only went downhill from
there, at least according to the powers that be. In addition, even his own
family realized he was delusional and, thinking you're God's son, Jesus is still
considered a psychiatric malady today. Religious authorities considered
him criminally insane. Has anything
changed?
HFP Blog
February 9, 2012James has just been turned down by the state in seeking a commutation of his sentence. Wanna know what Doug really thinks? Read the most recent blog entry HERE.
We need you
February 8, 2012At a glance, it appears that HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS is off
to a great start in 2012.
-In February alone, 20 requests for help
already
-Prisoners are inviting guest speakers from
HFP
-HFP has been winning battles for prisoners, and
they know it!
But
HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS is off to a bad start
financially.
-Contributions were short of budget by $5,000 in
January
-The snowmobile race fundraiser for Jan-Feb is
doomed by the weatherman...a loss of several thousand
dollars.
We need you.
-We are asking one or two of our major donors to
match gifts for the balance of February.
-We are asking all who believe in HFP to donate
now.
PLEASE HELP US AVOID DIPPING INTO OUR SMALL "RAINY
DAY" SURPLUS.
PLEASE HELP US CONTINUE OUR WINNING STREAK FOR
PRISONERS.
From the mouths of prisoners
February 7, 2012Think about this. When the MDOC entered into a state wide cable television contract, they didn't even bother---as a preliminary matter---to make sure that all cells and/or rooms had the wiring or equipment necessary to ensure that cable reception was the same in each and every room or cell. There are rooms in my housing unit, on the line down from my room, where the reception is horrible. Despite complaints, it has remained the same for over 8 years that I am aware of. They'll probably renew the cable contract when it expires without fixing the problems in those rooms. It is ridiculous. No wonder we are also so upset about the circumstances in which we live.
Starting the week with Emily Dickinson
February 6, 2012"If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain:
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain."
-- Emily Dickinson
From the mouths of prisoners
February 3, 2012Installment #3
I am frustrated, to ay the least, with this
thoughtless prison system (Michigan). I can't believe some of the
things people obviously prioritize in Central Office. Now it's tasers, and
a special housing unit at Alger CF. I hope with all the pushing these
folks are doing that the convicts don't become as teed off as I am, and start to
push back. Last time that happened was May, 1981. It ended up
costing the state hundreds of millions of dollars in repairs and consent decree
costs.
Latest blog entry
February 2, 2012HFP President Doug Tjapkes and Board Chair Dan Rooks head to the Thumb Correctional Facility this week. See Doug's HFP blog entry, May the words of my mouth... http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
Older inmates stressing prisons
February 1, 2012 |
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U.S. | January 27, 2012 Number of Older Inmates Grows, Stressing Prisons By TIMOTHY WILLIAMS More Americans older than 55 are being imprisoned, and many prisons are unprepared to provide them with health care, Human Rights Watch said in a new report. |
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We need hospice in our prisons
January 31, 2012Our friend Teri and her daughter Madison give us an update on Larry's situation in California.
John
Paul committed a terrible deed in his youth. Now he is in the
California prison hospice facility taking care of Larry. Today when we
walked in, there was a worship CD playing. It belongs to John Paul. He
told us he keeps it playing for Larry 24/7. Not sure that Larry knew
we were there. However God has sent an angel named John Paul who looks
in on Larry every hour, cleans his room, bathes him, prays over him, and
tells me everything will be OK. And then there is Shawn, who is there
when John Paul cannot be. Larry is loved.
And from daughter Madison:
My
dad is so blessed to be in the only prison hospice in California, one
of the few bright spots in this otherwise devastating experience. The
prison inmates who take are of my father are some of the most selfless
men I've ever met...in prison or otherwise. I know my dad is being
looked after when we are not there, not by the nurses or even the
doctors, but by guys who at one time committed a crime and have now
dedicated their lives to help dying men leave this earth with dignity
and love.
I would like a program like this right here in prison complex in Muskegon. We have a warden with a heart for it.
Start the new week by walking the walk
January 30, 2012It is no use walking anywhere to preach,
unless our walking is our preaching.
- St. Francis of Assisi
Good news from the Center on Wrongful Convictions
January 27, 2012
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From the Mouths of Prisoners
January 26, 2012Installment 2
Christmas in prison doesn't even resemble
Christmas at all any more. If I didn't know any better, I'd swear under
oath that our warden was the Scrooge incarnated. She wouldn't allow us to
use Prisoner Benefit Funds to purchase a small Christmas bag for each
prisoner. She said we didn't deserve them. My supervisor in the
factory wanted to buy peanut butter pie for us at Christmas. Despite past
practice, this year the warden claimed she couldn't find any local vendors
willing to sell u pies. You can't convince me, in this poor economy, that
there isn't a bakery willing to sell us pies. When prisoners learned that
they wouldn't be getting a slice of peanut butter pie at the lunch time
Christmas meal, and the reasons why, the warden changed her story. She
said we wouldn't be getting pie because of all the violence. Yes, it is
true, Doug, there has been an increase in violence, especially stabbing
incidents. But, I assure you, none of the perpetrators work in our
factory.
I continue to maintain that attitude at the top
affects attitude all the way to the very bottom.
On snowmobile races - a fresh start
January 25, 2012The weatherman hasn't been cooperating, and the
exciting BEVRA-sponsored vintage snowmobile race season still has not begun at
Lakeview, Michigan.
We have now received word that the races will be
held:
February 4
February11
Febuary
25
March 3
Our fund-raising teenaged racer, Spencer
Hassevoort, is going for the gold this year in two different divisions on each
of the Saturdays. Please get the pledges started now...a set amount of he
gets into the winning circle (1-3) and a bonus amount, probably double, if he
grabs a first place trophy. Let's have some fun, let's show him our
support, and let's raise some early-in-the-year funds for HFP.
A new online series, "From the Mouths of Prisoners"
January 24, 2012Installment #1
Really, if legislators cared about about
Michigan or Corrections, regardless of party affiliation, they wouldn't tolerate
the MDOC's reliance on out-of-state vendors for everything from cable to
health-care, medications to prisoner store stock, and telephones to
clothing. Nobody sees anything wrong with it. Surely, it must impact
the Michigan economy. Why haven't any legislators taken the initiative to
meet with state manufacturers in an effort to retrofit existing Michigan-based
companies to serve in state needs, and create jobs? It is just
crazy. Instead, the folks in Corrections want to top serving salt and
pepper packets at each meal as a cost-cutting measure, then increase our store
prices by 5%. Oh, in case you didn't know, family members or friends
sending us money must now send that money to Florida to get it processed
into our trust account.
How about forwarding this information to your State
Representative and your State Senator. This information comes to us from a
savvy inmate.
Start the week by taking a stand with Dr. King
January 23, 2012The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Behind bars
January 20, 2012Is it any wonder that this guy ended up in
prison?
My mother was a crack addict with HIV, my father was a heroin
addict who was murdered buying drugs when I was young. I barely knew
him. When I was around 12, my mother used to bring crack addicts into our
home. They used to smoke crack in front of me, in the rooms and the
basement. They used to eat up our food, and steal my things, especially
video games. My mother used to leave me and my 4 other younger siblings
alone for days with no food or supervision, while she ran the streets getting
high. Because of this we were taken into custody by the Department of
Human Services, and placed in foster homes with strangers. I grew up in a
violent environment. I've seen violence such as murder and drugs my whole
life. I used drugs, sold drugs as a youth, I've been robbed at gunpoint,
I've been shot on two different occasions.
Pray for Mr. M. He's trying to find legal and
psychological assistance.
It's book time
January 19, 2012Said a retired Christian professor:
I just finished reading your SWEET
FREEDOM. I am awed by the manner your Christian commitment
has consistently found expression in your persistent quest to achieve Maurice's
freedom. It is apparent that your basic Christian values have witnessed as
to what can happen when one takes Matthew 25 seriously. They include the
general public, the church, the media, and the criminal justice system who have
been touched by your profound witness.
What Professor T. neglected to mention is how the book has
touched the lives of those behind bars. We have already exhausted another
carton of 52 books, and still prisoners continue to ask for copies. And so
we ask if some generous soul might be willing to pick up the tab of
$283.65, so that we can continue to forward copies to inmates budget-free.
If you haven't yet read this compelling true story of a
wrongful conviction, order a copy for yourself. I'll send you a signed
copy for ten bucks.
What prisoners say about HFP
January 18, 2012A representative for Internal Affairs came and interviewed me yesterday. I can tell you the MDOC has a lot of respect for you. I'm black listed here, but thank you so much for helping us. You're a power house. I'm sure a lot of good will come out of this. Nothing would have been done without you. Thank you on behalf of all the vanguards, and those who suffer in silence.
It's snowmobile race time!
January 17, 2012Our champion snowmobile racer and fund-raiser,
Spencer Hassevoort is back, and ready to make up for a disappointing season last
year. His vintage Yamaha machine has a rebuilt and improved engine, and a
driver with an attitude this year! Spence will be racing in two categories
on January 21, February 4, February 11 and February 25...a total of eight
races. We're asking for your pledge for each race if he makes it into the
winning circle (1st-3rd place), and we suggest that you double the figure if he
captures the first place trophy. A pledge form is attached, but just feel
free to contact us by email. We'll take care of the rest.
For those who have played the game before, Spencer,
a 130-pound, 14 year old lad, takes on an all-adult field by special
permission in the BEVRA-Sanctioned oval races at Lakeview, Michigan.
Over the years he has proven to be a formidable competitor, often capturing
major trophies and often among the top winners of the season. He loves to
race for pledges to HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS, and is encouraged by your
support. So, strong support here at the very beginning is very
important. Get back to us soon.
Let's get out of the winter doldrums and have
fun!
To download the pledge form, click HERESpeaking of Dr. King's message
January 16, 2012See Sunday's blog entry: http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
Starting the week on MLK Day
January 16, 2012Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Paralegal Intern begins work in HFP office
January 13, 2012
Linda Johnson of Muskegon, currently enrolled at Baker College seeking an
Associates Degree in the Paralegal Program, will be serving her internship in
the HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS office, it was announced today by Doug Tjapkes, HFP
President.
Prior to this, Johnson has served as a Clerical Assistant with Mercy Health
Partners.
In the Baker program, she has been and will be studying Law Office
Management and Ethics, Legal Terminology, Legal Research and Writing, Criminal
Law, and other subjects dealing with criminal and civil law.
"Our office will be the perfect spot for Ms. Johnson to fulfill her 120-hour
internship requirements," said Tjapkes.
Johnson has long had an interest in the work of HFP.
Behind bars, frustrated
January 12, 2012I have been in prison over 15 years, behind bars for a crime I did not commit. Mr. Tjapkes, I know you all know that I am innocent. Why is it taking so long to get me out of prison? AIDWYC has had my case for over 8 years! I am a old man, I am so tired of waiting! My blood pressure is out of control and I am a diabetic with other issues. I would hate to die in prison. I pray to God that you would help me to get out. Will you please? These people in here is driving me crazy, they stole over $150 or different things out of my feet lock. I felt like killing someone for real. PLEASE HELP ME!
Today's Blog
January 11, 2012Doug Tjapkes hears Shakespeare behind bars. See Wednesday's blog entry: http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
The random Horror of the death penalty
January 11, 2012| |
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| January 7, 2012
Editorial | In Evidence: The Random Horror of the Death Penalty By Lincoln Kaplan, "The Supreme Court has not banned capital punishment, as it should, but it has long held that the death penalty is unconstitutional if randomly imposed on a handful of people. An important new study based on capital cases in Connecticut provides powerful evidence that death sentences are haphazardly meted out, with virtually no connection to the heinousness of the crime." |
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Prosecutors gone wild
January 10, 2012Prosecutors Gone Wild: How Many Wrongful Convictions Will the Public Stand for?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/conrad-black/supreme-court-michael-morton_b_1189021.html
Starting the new week with just a touch
January 9, 2012"I learned that it is the weak who are cruel, and that gentleness is to be expected only from the strong."
Leo Rosten
Behind bars, connected
January 5, 2012Thank you for writing and keeping me connected
to the real world.
Please pray for my continued good health and
safety in this dangerous, Satan-infested environment (there have been 4
stabbings here so far this month, and one guy was beaten up by another using a
lock-in-a-sock).
A simple reminder from one of our friends to keep
them---all inmates---in your prayers.
Regularly.
Behind bars, season's greetings
January 4, 2012Dear Mr. Tjapkes,
I hope next year will be different.
Falsely accused, wrongly convicted, and imprisoned year after year for
something I haven't done. I couldn't imagine this is real---spending
hour after hour, days and nights, thinking how could this happen in real
life. Remembering you in this special season, and wishing you and
your family Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Can you imagine?
Blog
January 3, 2012See Doug's New Year blog posting: God don't make no junk. http://humanityforprisoners.blogspot.com/
To end the old year, to begin the new
January 2, 2012A Franciscan Benediction
May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships,
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain to joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done,
To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
At easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships,
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain to joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done,
To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
Amen
