Prisons are obsolete

what should be done about prisons. In short, she invites us to imagine a world in which they no longer exist.

Prisons haven’t always existed. In fact, prisons as we know them today were themselves a reform emerging in the late 18th century in the U.S. and England. Before incarceration as a system of punishment, people in much of the world were subjected to extremely violent and disgusting penalties for crimes – corporal or capital punishment. The reformers, typically Protestant Christians like John Howard and philosophers like Jeremy Bentham, fought for a system they believed would deter further crime and allow inmates the time and conditions to reflect on their crimes and eventually leave rehabilitated. That the reformers were wrong has been empirically proven, as the majority of so-called criminals return to a life of crime as soon as they’re released from prison. And who’s surprised by this, given the conditions to which inmates are subject?

It’s not as if being released from prison guarantees someone secure employment, housing or mental healthcare. People are left to fend for themselves.

So, what would prison abolition look like? One of abolitionists’ main strategies is decarceration, or reducing the number of incarcerated people by releasing them and diverting others away from prisons who may otherwise be incarcerated.

There are currently more people with mental illness in jails and prisons than in hospitals in the U.S. Shifting people away from prison and toward the care they need is of the utmost importance. Then there are immigrants lacking permanent legal status, who in 2019 made up 13% of the federal prison population. If a person’s only crime is stepping across an arbitrarily drawn line on a map, then imprisoning them is an injustice, pure and simple.

Other steps toward decarceration include decriminalizing all drugs and sex work. Those who are addicted to illegal substances need hospitals, not prisons. As for

Sanjana Jairam (she/her) is a first-year graduate student studying data science.

Don’t we all wish we could be kids again? Well, you can be if you choose to be. Take life a little less seriously. Make jokes that are funny and not funny. Let go of things easily. Live in the moment and for the moment, not in the past or the future.

Do you remember being a kid and looking out of the window of a moving school bus and thinking the trees were running towards you or the moon was following you wherever you went, or you would try to count the stars in the sky? Or how you spoke to the flowers in the garden, hugged the trees and believed that every life counted? Try to see the world through the eyes of a child and appreciate the small things.

As a child, you often have a natural capacity for unconditional love. You love without judgment and expectations. Maybe you would run to open the door when your favorite aunt or uncle was visiting, or you couldn’t wait to see your friends again at school and share what was in your lunch box at recess. Or you would come home to your pet jumping all over you, and you’d play with her all day telling her stories of the outside world.

Children are naturally curious about the world. They always ask questions and are interested in learning new things, whether it’s trying a new food, playing a new game or learning a new language. They like experimenting and taking risks. They easily make friends and can hold a conversation with anyone.

When I was learning jazz dance, the first thing my teacher taught me was how to fall. You stand straight and bend forward like Michael Jackson in his music video “Smooth Criminal,” until you fall. So, you are taught how to fall even before you start dancing, to show you that it is OK. That you can be bold and trust that you’ll be OK even if you fall like when you were a kid.

Kids are generally happier. They take things as they come. I think it is time to bring out your inner child and be a little weird. Don’t you think goofing off and having a lighter outlook on life can make you happier?

I have a list of things you can try that will make you feel like a kid again:

1. Dance like nobody's watching

2. Break out into song on the streets

3. Swing in the park

4. Jump in bouncy castles

5. Eat ice cream and get it all over your face

6. Laugh until your stomach starts hurting

7. Paint random color blocks on a canvas

9. Cannonball into the water

10. Read fairy tales

11. Watch Disney movies

To everyone who feels a little shy and wants to hide away when they bring out their inner child, I leave you with this quote from C.S. Lewis:

“When I was ten, I read fairy tales in secret and would have been ashamed if I had been found doing so. Now that I am fifty, I read them openly. When I became a man, I put away childish things, including the fear of childishness and the desire to be very grown up.” sajairam@iu.edu sex work, most arguments against its decriminalization are founded upon puritanical religious grounds and are therefore not deserving of serious consideration.

Furthermore, we should take immediate action in eliminating private prisons, which profited from the incarceration of nearly 100,000 people in 2020. For-profit prisons have no incentive to rehabilitate inmates – in fact, they’re incentivized to hold prisoners for as long as possible in order to extract as much profit from them as they can.

Enormous profits are to be made from public prisons as well. U.S. prison workers in state and federal prisons produce $11 billion worth of goods and services for various corporations annually while being paid pennies per hour in what amounts to essentially slave labor.

It should be clear that prisons cannot be abolished overnight – massive societal transformations are necessary first. An economic system which happily makes use of slave labor, for example, must be dismantled. Mental healthcare must be expanded. Hostilities toward immigrants must be eliminated. Drug policies which disproportionately harm racial minorities must

ILLUSTRATION BY JACK DONNELLY

be overturned. But what about serial killers and sexual predators, you object. Davis spends little time considering them in her book, but I don’t think that’s a detriment to it. We’re calling for building a society that’s less sexist, less violent. Overcoming violence and sex crimes will be difficult, and eliminating them completely perhaps impossible –but it’s worth trying to go as far as we can, no? Perhaps the society in which we currently live is a society that needs prisons.

Let me put one simple question to you: are you satisfied with this society?

jaquigg@iu.edu

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

St. Augustine, Florida

Ezgi sent a text message at 1 a.m. to her former host sister, Ava Mantha, explaining what had happened. Mantha’s family hosted Ezgi during her exchange year in Bloomington. During this time, they had built a strong friendship and connection with each other.

“There's been a terrible earthquake. Our house is breaking. We have to go. We have to leave. I’m in the car right now.”

However, Mantha did not see the message until 3 p.m. the next day because she was busy with classes at a small college in Florida. She had also received messages from other people asking how Ezgi was.

The more news and social media posts she saw, the more she started to panic. She did not receive any other word from Ezgi until two days later saying she was at her aunt’s house.

“I immediately started freaking out. … I hadn’t gotten any messages since one in the morning,” Mantha said. “One of the most stressful things was the role social media played.”

She said she saw Ezgi’s friends posting about many being dead or in the hospital. It felt strange experiencing the aftershock of the earthquake from the outside, unsettling not knowing what was really going on. Mantha also knew how much emotional damage such an experience can inflict, and wished she could be there to comfort Ezgi.

“It can put your life on hold …You don’t know when things are going to go back to normal,” Mantha said. “Life being put on hold at such a formative time is an aspect that should be taken into account.”

Mantha said she has continued to stay in touch with Ezgi as she continues to navigate the situation. While it may be hard for her to visit the U.S. due to visa complications, Mantha hopes to visit her in Turkey in the following years.

“Knowing someone and not knowing if they’re okay and not knowing how their life is going to play out after these events definitely changes the way you might see the people around you,” Mantha said. “Everyone is in a certain bubble, but you’re connected in more ways than you realize.”

Pierce said, Wednesday's vote to defund the Kinsey Institute shows the House Republicans have been captured by the extreme right wing.

“Rational decision making in the House is no longer possible with legislators more interested in fighting culture wars or just afraid some crazy person will defeat them in a primary election if they don't support extreme bills," Pierce said in the statement.

The Kinsey Institute was founded in 1947 by Alfred Kinsey, according to the Kinsey Institute. Kinsey was an American sexologist, biologist and professor of entomology and zoology. After being asked questions about sexuality from students, Kinsey’s interest was piqued by his “gap in knowledge,” and he began collecting sex histories from student first then individuals in the Bloomington community. In 1940, Kinsey focused all of his time on sex research.

The Kinsey Institute was not immediately available for a comment.

Tamara Brown and PDVNCH, both poets, also performed at the event. Brown, who is also a musician, began with a poem about race, her ancestors, and growing up, which was followed by a segment in which she included the audience and had them clap out a rhythm while she sang an original song. PDVNCH gestured to the crowd wildly during his spoken-word performance about Black girls and their strength, comparing them to flowers that grow out of concrete. Additionally, Ross Gay, a renowned poet and author, read some of his comical essays from an unreleased book — the upcoming sequel to “The Book of Delights,” in which he details a new thing that gave him delight each day.

Local band Foredaze ended the night with its musical performance, playing a few original songs as well as a cover, at one point asking the audience to help name an unreleased single. “It doesn’t matter who you are, what you’re making is beautiful,” Jae Gasana, a local non-binary Black musician, and the emcee of the night, said to those in the audience.

Gasana is also a Girls Rock Young Adult Advisory Board youth leader. They said they initiate and plan events with the help of Girls Rock Bloomington’s larger staff and the generosity of organizations like FAR Center, who shared their space for the event free of charge.

The open mic night was free to the public, but GRB encouraged a $10 donation for its Black, Indigenous and People of Color Community Fund. This fund was first formed in January 2021 and helps cover the costs of GRB camp for local BIPOC youth.

“Having a BIPOC fund means that there will be youth that will have a chance to explore music and different parts of themselves,” Gasana said. They also said the camp helps kids establish relationships with the local

General Health community.

“I want everything we do with Girls Rock to be a recurring event,” Lauren Kniss, the director of FAR Center for Contemporary Arts, said. “They’re just so easy to work with — their mission just completely aligns with what we’re trying to do here at FAR.”

In addition to its collaboration with GRB, FAR provides several other events, exhibitions and programs for the Bloomington community. In March, FAR will host its Youth Art Month, during which they will provide kid’s workshops and an exhibition of art created by local students.

The open mic, which saw some artist debuts as well as performances by more established performers, satisfied its goal of providing a safe space for artists to share moments of joy, sadness, anger and grief.

“These events bring out so many different people of all ages and all backgrounds,” Gasana said. “It’s all about sharing.”

Oral/Dental Care

Dr. Josh Chapman

Dr. Diana Christensen, O.D. Tessa Shaw, L.E.

At Allure Eyecare + Aesthetics we do more than comprehensive eye care. We specialize in dry eye treatment and spa services to help you have healthy eyes and skin.

Owner & Optometrist, Dr. Diana Christensen and Tessa Shaw, L.E., have teamed up to bring the latest technology for eye exams and dry eye treatment such as OptiLight IPL. “We love making you look, see and feel your best!” Schedule online or call us:

Optometry

DDiChiOD

Dr. Diana Christensen, O.D. Tessa Shaw, L.E.

At Allure Eyecare + Aesthetics we do more than comprehensive eye care. We specialize in dry eye treatment and spa services to help you have healthy eyes and skin.

Owner & Optometrist, Dr. Diana Christensen and Tessa Shaw, L.E., have teamed up to bring the latest technology for eye exams and dry eye treatment such as OptiLight IPL. “We love making you look, see and feel your best!” Schedule online or call us:

3655 S. Sare Rd. 812-727-7444 www.allure-eyes.com

Mon.- Wed., Fri.: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thu.: 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Every other Saturday

Monroe Hospital is an award winning 32-bed hospital located in beautiful Bloomington, Indiana. A member of the Prime Healthcare health system, Monroe Hospital is committed to providing Bloomington and surrounding communities a choice for superior healthcare, ever mindful of each patient’s individual and unique needs.

Front Lobby: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Emergency Dept.: open 24 hrs

X-Ray Lab & Respiratory: open 24 hours

4011 S. Monroe Medical Park Blvd. 812-825-1111 monroehospital.com

3655 S. Sare Rd. 812-727-7444 www.allure-eyes.com

Mon.- Wed., Fri.: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thu.: 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Every other Saturday

Physicians

Dr. Vasquez is a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon specializing in progressive endovascular treatments. Over 20 years experience in treating varicose veins, peripheral vascular disease, aortic aneurysm and carotid disease, including angioplasty and stenting.

Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 815 W. Second St. 812-336-6008 vascularcenterandveinclinic.com

Chiropractic

Sarah Tieman, MD

Gregory Sutliff, MD

Elizabeth Simon, LCAC

Shashanka Nethi, MBBS

Nubia McVey, FNP-C

Theresa McClure, FNP

Kristen Bunch, CNM, FNP-BC

Ordonio Reyes, DDS

Steven Felde, DDS HealthNet Bloomington Health Center provides high-quality, affordable health care services to adults and children. Services include Primary Care, Behavioral Health, Dental, STI Testing & Treatment, Birth Control, Gender Affirming Care, and much more! We accept all Medicaid plans and most commercial insurance. A sliding fee scale discount is available for those who are eligible.

Mon., Wed., Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tue.: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. 811 W. Second St. 812-333-4001 indyhealthnet.org/locations/ bloomington-health-center

Massage Therapy

At Chapman Orthodontics, we know what you look for in an orthodontist: someone who is professional, experienced, outgoing and dedicated to helping you achieve your very best smile! We offer free consultations for children, teens and adults. Let us give you a smile you can be proud of using state of the art technology and cutting edge treatment options. We offer clear braces and Invisalign. Chapman Orthodontics is a privately owned orthodontic practice. Dr. Josh Chapman attended IU Bloomington for undergraduate and received his Doctor in Dental Surgery (DDS) and Masters (MSD) in Orthodontics at IU school of Dentistry in Indy. Go Hoosiers!

Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 3925 E. Hagan St., Suite 201 812-822-2489 bloomingtonbraces.com

Dr. Zachary Short, O.D.

Dr. Madison Witthoft, O.D.

Welcome to Insights Optical, where quality eye care is our number one priority. Our dedicated team is ready to learn all about you and your vision needs while using innovative technology and a comprehensive care approach to take care of your eye health.

Mon.: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Wed.: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Tue., Thu., Fri.: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 415 S. Clarizz Blvd. 812-333-1911 insightsoptical.com

Brian Logue, M.D. Eric Smith, M.D. Dave Elkins, P.A.C. Board certified physicians with over 70 years combined experience. Services include: kidney stones, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, prostate problems, same day emergency appointments and vasectomy.

Mon. - Wed.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Thu.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 2907 S. McIntire Dr. 812-332-8765 summiturology.com

Dr. Andrew Pitcher, D.C.

Dr. Crystal Gray, D.C.

A Way of Wellness Chiropractic specializes in comprehensive spinal care. We offer treatment for many different spinal conditions and problems, while also addressing the body as a whole. We provide effective chiropractic care helping patients reduce stress, improve mobility and spinal health. The quality treatment we provide is always fit to your individual needs and goals. Let us help you achieve and maintain good spinal health. We look forward to meeting you!

Mon. -

8

- 6 p.m. 1121 W. Second St. 812-336-2225 bloomingtonchiropractor.com

Carmela Senior-Euhl, LMT Mary Stroup, LMT Rachelle Hope, LMT Sarah Gershon, LMT Samantha Willoughby, LMT Cinnamon Love, LMT Rebekah Taylor, LMT Kelly Weldon, Licensed Esthetician Bloomington Massage & Bodyworks with a new movement studio, is the longest running massage practice in Bloomington. With a passion for quality work. Celebrating 25 years in business, we provide therapeutic massage. Along with new, expanded services in Esthetics, Cupping, EnergyWork, Yoga & Movement classes. We look forward to continuing our dedication to the community and clients. Committed to helping you feel the best, because you deserve it. Visit our website: www. bloomingtonbodyworks.com

Mon. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sun.: 12:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. 101 W. Kirkwood Ave, Suite 127 812-333-4917 bloomingtonbodyworks.com

Ryan D. Tschetter, DDS Lauren Hoye, DDS Jackson Creek Dental is conveniently located on South College Mall Road. Most insurances accepted, including the Indiana University Cigna Insurance plans as well as the IU Fellowship Anthem. Dr. Tschetter and Dr. Hoye offer state of the art dental technology such as Zoom whitening, same day crown appointments, and Invisalign. We also provide restorative, cosmetic and emergency care. We pride ourselves in giving the best care to our patients while offering a pleasant yet professional atmosphere.

Mon. - Thu.: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri.: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. 1124 S. College Mall Rd. 812-336-5525 jcdsmiles.com

Austin C. Starr, D.D.S

Dr. Starr is an Indiana University Football Alum who provides pain-free experiences for all Hoosiers with IV sedation. He performs specialized oral surgery services including Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Dental Implants, Bone Grafting, and Plasma Therapy. Equipped with modern 3-D technology, he has the most up-to-date surgical skills and techniques to accomplish beautiful results with his patients. He looks forward to accomplishing beautiful results with his patients, enhancing confidence and satisfaction for all he serves.

Go Hoosiers!

We look forward to taking care of you!

Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. 473 S. Landmark Ave. 812-318-1023 starroralsurgery.com