Blog 4 Poverty

This article talks about the growing poverty amongst the families with spouses incarcerated. According to Charlene Hamilton, ex-wife of Carl Harris; an ex-convict who spent 20 years in prison, she was “basically, locked up with him.” She went on to say that “My mind was locked up. My life was locked up. Our daughters grew up without a father.” Carl Harris was incarcerated on two different occasions; his second offense was the longest. He was forced to leave the mother of his two children to fend for herself. For 11 years she would visit him in the prisons he was located in, and for some time this meant a 3-day bus ride to New Mexico. He began working in the prison, however prison wages were only $1.15 per-hour and this didn’t even cover bus fare. At some points in her life she was homeless, living in her car, and separated from her children all because she wasn’t getting the help from her husband. During the years up until both of her daughters were enrolled in school, Ms. Hamilton was unable to work. So her only options at income were welfare. The cycle went on for 11 years of Mr. Harris’ sentence until she divorced him but she never did remarry.

Poverty is more likely in a household with an incarcerated spouse, and this is made evident in this article. Though some people are able to make it without a spouse and live an impoverished life for most that isn’t that case. Some may eventually remarry and possibly get back on their feet, and be able live the life they wanted. I think it just depends on the drive of the person. I feel as though the penal system can be harsh but if it weren’t there would be a lot more crime. Those inmates who are let off easy are more likely to be repeat offenders, and just continue the cycle that can be maintained.

Enyea Parks

11:45 PM

2/24/13