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July 9, 2013

California Prisoners Begin What Could Be State's Largest Hunger Strike 
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Thousands of prisoners across California have launched their third
large-scale hunger strike in the past two years. The action focuses on
ending long-term solitary confinement, which the prisoners call a form
of "indefinite state-sanctioned torture." Thousands took part in the
most recent hunger strike in the fall of 2011, winning vows to improve
conditions in solitary confinement. The fast started at Pelican Bay
State Prison, but it has now spread to two-thirds of the state's 33
prisons. California officials say some 30,000 prisoners refused meals on
the strike's first day, which if sustained would result in the largest
prison hunger strike in the state's history. In addition to refusing
meals, many prisoners are also missing classes and prison work programs.

 

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