Journal of Prisoners on Prisons

Journal of Prisoners on Prisons

The Journal of Prisoners on Prisons (JPP) is a unique academic journal that focuses on the experiences and perspectives of prisoners, offering a platform for their voices to be heard within the academic and public spheres. Established with the aim of bridging the gap between the incarcerated and the outside world, the JPP is a peer-reviewed, prisoner-written journal that challenges conventional views on imprisonment and seeks to promote a more humane and effective criminal justice system.

Overview

The JPP operates under the principle that prisoners are experts of their own experiences and, therefore, can provide valuable insights into the workings of the penal system, the conditions of confinement, and the impact of incarceration on individuals and communities. By prioritizing writings from those within the prison system, the journal plays a crucial role in highlighting issues often overlooked by mainstream academic research and media.

History

The inception of the JPP dates back to the late 1980s, when a group of Canadian scholars and activists recognized the need for a platform that could amplify the voices of prisoners. Since its first publication, the journal has grown in scope and reach, publishing articles from incarcerated individuals worldwide. It has become a critical resource for researchers, policymakers, and advocates working towards prison reform and social justice.

Publication Themes

The JPP covers a wide range of topics related to the prison experience, including but not limited to:

• Prison conditions and the daily realities of incarceration
• Solitary confinement and its psychological effects
• Prisoner rehabilitation and education programs
• Prisoners' rights and legal challenges
• Restorative justice and alternatives to incarceration
• Personal narratives and poetry from prisoners

Impact

The JPP has had a significant impact on the field of criminology and prison studies, providing a platform for incarcerated individuals to contribute to academic discourse and policy discussions. It has also served as an educational tool, offering students and the general public a deeper understanding of the complexities of the prison system and the human stories within it.

Submission Process

The journal encourages submissions from current and former prisoners, with the editorial team providing support and guidance throughout the publication process. Submissions are reviewed by both academic scholars and a review board of prisoners, ensuring that the content is both academically rigorous and reflective of the lived experiences of the incarcerated.

Access and Distribution

The JPP is available in both print and digital formats, with efforts made to distribute copies to libraries, educational institutions, and prisons. The journal's commitment to accessibility ensures that its content reaches a wide audience, including those directly affected by the issues it addresses.

Conclusion

The Journal of Prisoners on Prisons stands as a testament to the power of giving voice to the voiceless. Through its commitment to publishing the work of incarcerated individuals, the JPP not only enriches academic discourse but also contributes to a more informed and compassionate understanding of the prison system and those it confines.