The Prison Within is a documentary series available on Amazon Addon that takes a deep dive into the criminal justice system in the United States. The show is hosted and co-produced by Sujatha Baliga, a nationally recognized restorative justice practitioner, and features conversations with individuals who have been directly impacted by incarceration.
Throughout the five episodes of the series, Baliga sits down with a variety of guests ranging from formerly incarcerated individuals to prison staff to law enforcement officials. The conversations are heartfelt, emotional, and at times, difficult, as guests share their experiences and perspectives on the criminal justice system. Baliga is empathetic and a skilled listener, creating an environment where guests feel safe to share their stories.
One of the standout guests is Nate Collins, a formerly incarcerated man who discusses his experience being in the criminal justice system for 17 years. Collins was sentenced to life in prison without parole for a crime he did not commit. The episode, titled "Life Without," explores the impact of mass incarceration on families and society as a whole. Collins shares his journey of surviving in prison and the difficulties surrounding his transition back into society after being exonerated.
Another notable guest is Hill Harper, an award-winning actor, author, and activist who wrote the book "Letters to an Incarcerated Brother." Harper discusses the root causes of mass incarceration, the racial disparities within the system, and the importance of addressing these issues to create a more just society. Harper highlights the role of education and mentorship in preventative measures to reduce recidivism rates.
The series is well-crafted and thought-provoking, and does an excellent job of showing the human side of the criminal justice system. It is clear that the show's intention is to spark a larger conversation about the need for reform and restorative justice practices. The Prison Within brings light to the challenges faced by those directly impacted by the system, and encourages viewers to take a closer look at the issues and work towards a more equitable future.
Overall, The Prison Within is a powerful series that offers insight into the complexities of the criminal justice system. Baliga's empathetic approach to hosting and engaging with guests creates a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and perspectives. The show offers a unique view of the system that is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. The Prison Within is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the criminal justice system and its impact on individuals and society.
