PHILADELPHIA— “Philadelphia voters have approved the ballot measure to establish a permanent Prison Oversight Board in the City Charter—marking a major step toward accountability, transparency, and basic human rights in our local jails.
“With this vote, our city has sent a clear message: we will no longer look away from the unacceptable conditions faced by incarcerated people and prison employees. This result reflects years of planning, organizing and advocating for transparency and accountability.
“We are grateful to the voters, our advocacy partners, and Councilmembers Isaiah Thomas and Nicolas O’Rourke, who worked so hard to make this moment possible. The people have spoken, and they are saying ‘no’ to dangerous and inhumane conditions on State Road and ‘yes’ to oversight, accountability, and dignity.
“The Defender Association looks forward to working with the new board, City Council, and community partners to ensure real oversight and lasting change.”
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