Our visit to HM Langi Kal Kal Prison is one of the hallmark days of the program, and this year was no different. Our visit involved;
- A comprehensive briefing by senior corrections staff at Langi Kal Kal
- Tour of the prison facilities, including industries, accommodation facilities, recreational facilities, catering areas.
- Introductions and conversations with prisoners (conducted in small groups of participants)
- Question and Answer session with Corrections staff
This unique experience provided an opportunity to take participants out of their comfort zone, to challenge them to be uncomfortable and sit with a feeling of discomfort.
“Please let me begin by thanking you for sharing your story with us, for answering our questions. I was a journalist for 15 years and I know that our stories are so very private, so very personal, and to share them is a gift. Your story was at times hard to receive – but always an honour to be told. The greatest part of your gift to us? At the end, when we asked if you are nervous about your release. The honesty of your quiet ‘yes’ is something I will carry with me for years to come.”
“First off let me thank you for sharing your story with us and sharing your story. Your anxiousness with your release around housing, employment, and all the other challenges that may occur, has given me not only great insight but also has given me a lot of thought of what I can do within my community.
Our meeting has challenged my thinking on how we can do better, I do believe that you are “forgotten community” especially once you are release and that has challenged me as well.
After a few days of reflection from meeting you and listening to you, I have had so many lightbulb moments. In which I need to sit down and process more but am looking forward to where this may take me.”
“Getting to see Langi Kal Kal first-hand, and hearing from some of the staff and inmates about prison life and the struggles you face with re-integration into society has really opened my eyes. It was difficult to hear that society is failing you in many ways, and I left feeling upset and frustrated on your behalf.
I was frustrated to hear about the lack of housing support available to inmates, and the consequences of this; including not being able to meet parole conditions. I can’t help but keep thinking about what you both said about difficulty finding work upon release.
I have begun conversations with my employer about our employment process, and how we can better network with other organisations to support those transitioning from prison and back into our community to gain employment. It’s a small thing on our part but I hope it will help at least a few people.”