Victoria Law

Victoria Law is a freelance journalist who focuses on the intersections of incarceration, gender, and resistance. Her books include Resistance Behind Bars: The Struggles of Incarcerated Women, Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms (coauthored with Maya Schenwar), and the forthcoming “Prisons Make Us Safer” and 20 Other Myths About Mass Incarceration.

A solitary confinement cell

How a Former Black Panther Could Change the Rules of Solitary Confinement How a Former Black Panther Could Change the Rules of Solitary Confinement

The case of Russell Maroon Shoatz, who spent nearly 30 years in solitary confinement, could set a precedent for others held in prolonged isolation.

Feb 22, 2016 / Victoria Law

Survivors of Domestic Violence Deserve Clemency, Not Prison Cells

Survivors of Domestic Violence Deserve Clemency, Not Prison Cells Survivors of Domestic Violence Deserve Clemency, Not Prison Cells

Governor Andrew Cuomo just made an historic pledge to grant clemency to thousands of former nonviolent youthful offenders—what about women who committed violence in order to live?

Dec 21, 2015 / Victoria Law

Stephanie Reis and son

After Giving Birth, These Women Were Placed in Handcuffs, Leg Irons, and Waist Chains After Giving Birth, These Women Were Placed in Handcuffs, Leg Irons, and Waist Chains

It’s time for New York State to ban the shackling of women prisoners during pregnancy and after delivery.

Dec 2, 2015 / Victoria Law

What Happens When Old Prisons Are Given Back to Their Communities?

What Happens When Old Prisons Are Given Back to Their Communities? What Happens When Old Prisons Are Given Back to Their Communities?

As New York State begins closing prisons, some are being sold to the highest bidder—but some are becoming sites of social change.

Oct 29, 2015 / Victoria Law

Why Are So Many Women Behind Bars in Oklahoma?

Why Are So Many Women Behind Bars in Oklahoma? Why Are So Many Women Behind Bars in Oklahoma?

With twice as many women in prison as in other states, Oklahoma is the female-incarceration capital of the United States.

Sep 29, 2015 / Victoria Law

Why Is Marissa Alexander Still Being Punished for Fighting Back?

Why Is Marissa Alexander Still Being Punished for Fighting Back? Why Is Marissa Alexander Still Being Punished for Fighting Back?

As Alexander leaves prison for house arrest, it’s time to question the system that turns women into criminals for trying to stay alive.

Jan 28, 2015 / Victoria Law

It’s Time to Bring Domestic Violence Survivors Like Barbara Sheehan Home From Prison

It’s Time to Bring Domestic Violence Survivors Like Barbara Sheehan Home From Prison It’s Time to Bring Domestic Violence Survivors Like Barbara Sheehan Home From Prison

As governors mull clemency, battered women should be at the top of the list.

Dec 24, 2014 / Victoria Law

With One Prisoner Dead, Will California Listen to the Hunger Strikers?

With One Prisoner Dead, Will California Listen to the Hunger Strikers? With One Prisoner Dead, Will California Listen to the Hunger Strikers?

The death of Billy “Guero” Sell will not be the last, warn advocates for prisoners refusing to eat or work.

Aug 2, 2013 / Victoria Law

Tens of Thousands of California Prisoners Launch Mass Hunger Strike

Tens of Thousands of California Prisoners Launch Mass Hunger Strike Tens of Thousands of California Prisoners Launch Mass Hunger Strike

The strikers are calling for an end to long-term solitary confinement and better prison conditions.

Jul 10, 2013 / Victoria Law

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