This Is Our Freedom: Motherhood in the Shadow of the American Prison System

This Is Our Freedom is a documentary that explores the roles of mothers who have been incarcerated and how motherhood shapes their post-incarceration lives, with a focus on the lasting legacy of mass incarceration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

For the vast majority of women exiting correctional institutions in the United States, one facet of their identity profoundly shapes their needs, opportunities, hopes, and dreams: their roles as mothers. This Is Our Freedom offers an intimate and poignant portrayal of the journeys of women before and after incarceration. Through in-depth interviews with seventy formerly incarcerated mothers, Geniece Crawford Mondé captures how these women redefine their marginalized identities and reclaim their agency in telling their own stories. Mondé employs insightful analysis to unveil the intricate ways in which motherhood shapes post-incarceration life, while also shedding light on the enduring consequences of mass incarceration on society's most vulnerable members.

The film delves into the complex web of factors that contribute to women's incarceration, including poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, domestic violence, and drug addiction. It also explores the systemic barriers that prevent women from achieving stability and success after leaving prison, such as discrimination, lack of job opportunities, and social exclusion.

Through the stories of these women, This Is Our Freedom sheds light on the resilience and strength of mothers who have faced incredible adversity. It highlights the importance of supporting and empowering women to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities after incarceration. The film also raises awareness about the need for systemic change to address the root causes of incarceration and promote equity and justice for all.

In conclusion, This Is Our Freedom is a powerful and essential film that offers a profound insight into the lives of women who have been marginalized and excluded. It provides a timely and important message about the importance of supporting and empowering women to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities after incarceration. The film's powerful storytelling and compelling visuals make it a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice and human rights.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520380714