Alabama Books to Prisons Project

About this project:

We believe in a world without cages, a world where people are not seen as disposable, a world full of second and third chances. We are committed to imagining restorative justice practices that reduce harm and center the healing of those who survive violence and/or abuse. We search for accountability grounded in empathy instead of fear—knowing that we are all more than our worst mistakes, knowing that we are all capable of growth and change, knowing that we are all deserving of dignity, respect and self-determination. Alabama is home to some of the worst prisons and jails in the country, trapping over 46,000 people behind bars. While we imagine an abolitionist future, we recognize the urgent need to reduce suffering now. Our aim is to intervene in the isolation of prison life, connect folks through penpal-ship, and increase access to educational material by fulfilling book requests. As queers and allies ourselves, we aim to provide a space for personal expression and communication free from homophobia and transphobia. The project does not aim to match people up romantically, but rather to create friendships where those involved can support and learn from one another.