Webinar — A Heavy Burden to Bear: The Impact of Mass Incarceration on Women

The national conversation about the damaging consequences of mass incarceration has largely centered around the experiences of men. And yet, in the United States, over a million women come into contact with the criminal justice system each year. As a result, the unique challenges experienced by currently and formerly incarcerated women in their health, employment and housing are often unrecognized and unmet. Moreover, the adverse impact of maternal incarceration on children has life-long ramifications.

A panel featuring Brittany Barnett, award-winning attorney and social entrepreneur, Jennifer Herring, director of re-entry services at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and Nadine Scamp, CEO of Santa Maria Hostel, considered comprehensive strategies to address challenges facing women involved in the criminal justice system. Quianta Moore, fellow in child health policy, moderated the discussion.

This webinar, sponsored by the Center for Health and Biosciences, was the third of a series of discussions about the criminal justice system, racial equity and public health, offered in collaboration with the Baker Institute Drug Policy program. Follow @BakerInstitute online, and join the conversation with #BakerJustice.