Hunger Strike Against Long-Term Isolation in Santa Rosa Jail

I have been in solitary confinement for 245 days, unlawfully, without hearings held in harsh conditions. I filed a class action lawsuit on these issues and the barbaric tactics COs use to break us down physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. A hunger strike also commenced on 26 October 2016 and lasted until approximately 5 November 2016. About 10 prisoners started in the strike. Our demands had to do with re-housing us in less restrictive units and loosening restrictions on us in Ad-Seg. Also, we were pushing for fair hearings and changes to their oppressive policies.

We stand to invoke positive social change through peace and non-violence. During the strike we were all separated. I, personally, was thrown into a cold, dark cell deprived of all my property, my underwear, socks, shoes and bedding for days, in a pee and feces infested room and not allowed cleaning materials. The strike didn’t stop at that point. We continued to strike through all of these injustices and in the end we did see some change, even if only minor. We were allowed 23 hours up instead of 23 1/2.

I am still harassed and targeted to this day. I’ve been written up for nothing. My mail’s been restricted, legal mail comes opened, they’re blocking my access to courts, unlawfully search and take belongings out of my cell, the list can go on. So you can see, we’ve been active in our struggle. I look to gain in knowledge and share with others to more effectively organize. Allow me to close here with a revolutionary warrior’s strength and respect.