A Hidden Workforce: Prison Labor, Human Rights, and the Legacy of Slavery

Explore the complex history and current realities of prison labor in the United States through this thought-provoking webinar. Delve into the legacy of the 13th Amendment's exception clause and its impact on the modern incarceration system. Examine how convict leasing evolved into today's prison labor practices, disproportionately affecting Black Americans and people of color. Analyze the working conditions, pay, and labor protections for incarcerated workers, while considering the potential benefits and challenges of prison work programs. Learn from a diverse panel of experts, including legal scholars, corrections officials, labor leaders, and formerly incarcerated individuals, as they discuss the intersection of prison labor, human rights, and the ongoing legacy of slavery. Gain insights into potential reforms and ideas for creating more humane and dignified work opportunities for those behind bars. Access additional resources, including speaker bios, transcripts, and related materials, to further your understanding of this critical issue in American society.