Tropical Storm Barry is barreling toward the gulf region and there are incarcerated people in harm's way. The storm is anticipated to be slow moving which means that flash flooding is a likelihood. Parts of Louisiana are under mandatory evacuation and the National Hurricane Center is issuing warnings of a dangerous storm surge that many fear could reach levels higher than New Orleans' levees.

During recent hurricanes, jails, prisons, and immigrant detention centers have chosen to "shelter in place." Prisoners have been subject to horrendously dangerous conditions while surrounding areas have been ordered to evacuate. Incarcerated people have been forced to contend with their roofs being blown off from over their heads, having to wade through and even drink contaminated chest-deep water, food and medicine shortages, and maximized oppression or disciplinary measures as a result of staff shortages. This is unacceptable and entirely preventable.

We must not allow state-based Departments of Corrections, Immigrant and Customs Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to continue to neglect our people. That's why Color Of Change members are joining our friends at Fight Toxic Prisons to demand that all incarcerated people in the path of Tropical Storm Barry be evacuated immediately. 

Call now.