Surviving Solitary

From Issue 40 of The Abolitionist:

Critical Resistance is pleased to announce our new resource guide, “Surviving Solitary,” available now. To receive a copy at no cost for imprisoned readers, simply write to us at: Critical Resistance, P.O. Box 22780, Oakland, CA 94609-2301. “Surviving Solitary” is a packet of materials containing resources and practical techniques for imprisoned people to use in order to survive the torturous conditions of solitary confinement, including tips and tools for mindfulness and meditation, yoga, physical exercise, body movement practices, and political study, as well as contact information to connect with our movement partners at Solitary Watch, Dancing Through Prison Walls, Sylvia Rivera Law Project, Flying Over Walls, American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), and others with additional resources to share.

We offer this guide because survival is always the first step to resistance and to support our comrades inside as they fight to stay strong and continue the struggle against the prison industrial complex (PIC). While putting together “Surviving Solitary,” we spoke with a number of former or currently imprisoned activists about their experiences in solitary confinement. The following insights, reflections, tips, and tools come from our brave comrades who have endured extended periods in control units and continue to take up the fight for freedom and liberation. We pass along their wisdom and practical survival strategies in hopes that they may be of help to those of our readers facing similar circumstances.