Structures of Consciousness with Lisa Guenther

The dark realities of the prison system often go unexplored, leaving many unaware of inhumane practices such as solitary confinement and the weaponization of race. Episode 45 of our podcast features Lisa Guenther, a renowned academic who shares her profound insights into these issues. Her experiences and research offer a perspective that challenges conventional views and invites us to confront the brutal realities of the US prison system.

Solitary confinement, a form of imprisonment in which an inmate is isolated from any human contact, is a harsh reality. Lisa’s journey from studying feminist philosophy to uncovering the parallels between slavery and incarceration provides an insightful understanding of this issue. Her exploration into the lived experiences of those who have endured solitary confinement sheds light on the devastating psychological impact of prolonged isolation.

A significant part of our discussion also centres around the experiences of women in solitary confinement. Women prisoners often face a unique set of challenges, from mental health issues to maternal alienation, where they are separated from their children and loved ones. The justice system often presents conflicting goals of punishment versus rehabilitation, a dichotomy that Lisa appreciates.

Our conversation then shifts to the concept of social death, a term that describes the loss of identity that prisoners often face. In the face of such adversity, however, many prisoners demonstrate remarkable resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for survival and resistance. This exploration into the profound concepts of social death and creative resistance sheds light on the complexities of the prison system and the power of personal narratives.

The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the need for systemic change in international justice systems. Lisa argues that by confronting our compatibility with the carceral estate, we can bring about radical shifts in behaviour. The conversation serves as a reminder that change is not only possible but necessary.

We invite you, the listener to delve deeper into the realities of the prison system, confront uncomfortable truths and join in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society. By engaging with Lisa Guenther’s insights and experiences, we gain a greater understanding of the complexities of solitary confinement, the weaponization of race and the potential for systemic change. This knowledge, coupled with our shared commitment to justice and equality, can serve as a powerful catalyst for change.

E.66 Harmony Behind Bars: The Transformative Symphony of Liberty Choir in UK Prisons – Rebel Justice – changing the way you see justice

Imagine a world where the reverberations of music echo through the most unexpected places, bringing not just melody but hope and transformation. That's the reality Ginny Dogary and MJ Paranzino have created with Liberty Choir, a program that is changing lives within the UK prison system. Join us as we hear about their incredible journey, the ties that bind them to their work, and the undeniable impact of their program. MJ opens up about her brother-in-law's personal battles, shedding light on the deeper connections that fuel their mission, while Ginny's relentless drive has seen the choir grow from a seed of thought to a flourishing community initiative.When the pandemic struck, the silence of isolation could have been deafening for those behind bars. But not on our watch. We'll share the heartfelt efforts that kept the music and messages flowing into the cells via radio waves, with inspiring tales of resilience and creativity from everyone involved. You'll feel the warmth of the community as we recount how Liberty Choir adapted and thrived, even as the world around them was forced to stand still. The power of a radio program became a lifeline, filling the void with songs, stories, and the voices of volunteers and former inmates, ensuring that no one was forgotten in the darkest times.As we peer into the future, Ginny and MJ passionately lay out their vision for the Liberty Choir to reach every corner of England and Wales. They discuss the hurdles they've overcome and the ambitious goals still ahead, including their unwavering commitment to criminal justice reform. By sharing stories of mentorship and growth, they invite us to see the potential for a more compassionate and effective system. So tune in, get inspired, and maybe, just maybe, find a role for yourself in this chorus for change.Support the showFor more unmissable content from The View sign up here

1. E.66 Harmony Behind Bars: The Transformative Symphony of Liberty Choir in UK Prisons 35:49
2. E 65: Orsola de Castro on Redefining Elegance The Call for Authenticity in Fashion Choices 30:28
3. Episode 64: Illuminating Trauma: Feminist Perspectives from Susan Pease Banitt and other Women Healers 40:31
4. E: 63 Latte and Liberation The Fresh Brew of Social Change in UK Prisons 34:59
5. E 62: Simon Natas and Jeremy Dein KC on The Quest for Judicial Equity in the Shadow of Unsafe Convictions 27:30