Hispanic/Latino(A) Prisoners

Prison Conditions in the Past and Present

Spanish-speaking prisoners have long been subjected to differential treatment while inside prison walls. Many Hispanic prisoners are pressured to refrain from speaking their native language and also are denied the opportunity to learn the English language when such classes exist. Some have complained that their letters are not mailed out or allowed to be received unless written in English. Similarly, others allege that medical treatment is not given to Latino prisoners either because of the language barrier, discrimination by correctional officers, or use sometimes as punishment for certain behavior.

The 1971 Attica Prison rebellion represented a first crucial step in addressing some of the inequities Latino prisoners faced. On September 9, 1971, over half of the 2,243 prisoners at Attica Correctional Facility rebelled, holding 39 security and civilian personnel hostage. The rebellion ended four days later on September 13, claiming the lives of 29 prisoners and 10 employees, six of whom were guards, and wounding many others. Of the demands made by the prisoners, three in particular were geared specifically toward Latinos. These demands included adequate medical treatment for every inmate and if needed, Spanish-speaking doctors or an interpreter to accompany the inmate to the doctor. Also, Latinos requested a complete Spanish library and the institution of a program that would increase the number of Latino and African American correctional officers. The lack of Spanish interpreters, lawyers, books, and general services were and continue to be a large part of the Latino discontent. The Attica Prison rebellion also paved the way for Latinos(as) to form informal networks within prisons to continue the fight for equality and fairness.

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