Sam Lewis, the executive director of @antirecidivism.bsky.social, spoke with Contributing Writer @nadrakn.bsky.social about why good meals, better pay, and post-release support could transform the future for incarcerated firefighters—and why society should see their humanity.
For those out protesting, exercise caution and know your rights: aclusocal.co/protest-rights
Earlier this year, over 1,000 incarcerated firefighters contributed significantly to combating wildfires in Southern California, despite making between $5-$10 per day and often being barred from future firefighting careers due to their criminal record.
"I started the process and quickly found out that I had to commit a significant amount of time and navigate complex law procedures. I still do not have my record expunged" - ARC member Robert Wynne and CAL Fire Captain.
calmatters.org/justice/2025...
My final story for the LAT ⬇️
Life after California’s death row: what happens when condemned inmates get a second chance
www.latimes.com/california/s...
A Los Angeles County program that trains formerly incarcerated people for firefighting careers recently launched its first all-female cohort.
laist.com/news/crimina...
Jones’ work stands as a powerful testament to the humanity of those inside. His art and words remind us that everyone is worthy of redemption.
“I want to be remembered, first of all, as a human being who made mistakes,” Jones says.
www.latimes.com/california/s...
Thank you!
Nick Martino reading amazing poems and shouting out to @antirecidivism.bsky.social and the incarcerated workers who helped fight the LA fires.
AB 247 passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee!
This bill will raise wages for incarcerated handcrew members and fairly compensate these heroes!
We thank @ib2real.bsky.social for leading this historic bill!
Next stop: CA Assembly Appropriations Committee!
“They’re putting their lives on the line too. Why wouldn’t they be paid for something that they’re providing that’s needed, desperately needing in the state of California?"
therealnews.com/california-i...
Flames from the Hughes fire came within a mile of the Castaic jails before firefighters pushed them back. Inmate advocates are still haunted by the what-ifs.
Did you know youth incarceration has fallen by 58% since 2000? Youth prisons have closed nationwide as fewer young people have been arrested.
www.nytimes.com/2025/01/28/m...
Trump's new attorney general, Pam Bondi, released a flurry of memos on her first day of office. @elizabethweill.bsky.social and @ethanscorey.bsky.social break down some of the most significant takeaways here: theappeal.org/pam-bondi-at...
Join us in supporting the nearly 1000 incarcerated firefighters serving on the frontlines to contain the #LAfires by buying a limited edition #PeopleFirst shirt. All proceeds will be donated to @antirecidivism.bsky.social's incarcerated firefighter fund. peoplefirststore.fwd.us
California’s Incarcerated Firefighters: Heroes on the Frontlines, Building Futures Beyond the Flames
www.bet.com/phoenix-awar...
A federal judge tonight blocked Donald Trump’s executive order transferring transgender women in federal prisons into men’s facilities. www.politico.com/news/2025/02...
We're thrilled to be co-sponsoring #SB245 and increasing 2nd chance opportunities for our brave fire crews.
We are grateful to Senator Reyes for championing this important legislation. Stay tuned for updates!
NEW: Virginia is currently the only state to strip people of their voting rights *FOR LIFE* over *any* felony.
Democrats just advanced a constitutional amendment that would end this lifetime ban.
@burness.bsky.social reports on their move, & on what's next:
boltsmag.org/virginia-adv...
"Sometimes reliable information is all that’s needed to help immigrants avoid ICE agents, and anyone can help reduce the unnecessary panic that arrest announcements can generate."
This op-ed explains how to start an ICE Watch neighborhood program in your community. ⤵️
BLINK-182 Announces Hollywood Palladium Performance To Benefit Los Angeles Fire Relief Efforts
URGENT: At least 4,700 people are incarcerated in four north county jails within the Hughes Fire evacuation warning zone.
Thank you so much, @paulscheer.com ! This is amazing!
LA: This Thursday. This killer cast is raising money for 3 amazing organizations- @antirecidivism.bsky.social
@cielorg.bsky.social
And Little Red Hen Coffee Shop in Altadena. Get Tickets
www.seetickets.us/event/dinosa...
With literally minutes left in his presidency, Joe Biden has granted clemency to Leonard Peltier
Join us in supporting the nearly 1000 incarcerated firefighters serving on the frontlines to contain the #LAfires by buying a limited edition #PeopleFirst shirt. All proceeds will be donated to @antirecidivism.bsky.social incarcerated firefighter fund. peoplefirststore.fwd.us
Thank you so much!
Too often, the "public safety" conversation dehumanizes people & misunderstands real safety. Join us to support the incarcerated firefighters who have been risking their lives to protect #LAStrong. Proceeds go to @antirecidivism.bsky.social firefighters fund peoplefirststore.fwd.us #PeopleFirst
