This letter is to remind you all that, as Sistas, we need to be there for one another to raise women up.

It’s daunting enough when you get arrested by police, then placed into custody and thrown into a cell. Then you have to go through a degrading strip search.

I’ve spent most of my adult life behind bars, and I’m not proud to say it. It’s been such a bloody waste.

Anyone who has spent a significant amount of time in prison can relate to the concept of prison rituals and routines.

We have limited options regarding studying whilst incarcerated. I am midway through an arts degree, however, once I am released, I am re-routing towards politics/law.

I recently have been put in the medium precinct, and I had put a request form asking what the costs were to order the Examiner newspaper.

My first time in jail was a shock to the system. I have learned quickly that routine is key. Getting your exercise, diet, mental health, maintaining social encounters; it truly helps.

I hated the kitchen on the outside but have learnt from being inside that it makes me feel wholesome and happy.

He awoke, annoyed, just able to make out his cellie in the blacked-out gloom. He began to protest, but his spirit soared when he heard the word: “Your library books are here!”

It was November 2025. I had zero dollars in my jail account. Mum sent me some Christmas dollars. I’d just started working and was earning $47.00 per week, plus $9.95 hygiene allowance.

Buy-Ups feed my belly, but what about my mind? Wth nothing on the telly, I might as well be blind.