Behind Bars: Ethics and Human Rights in U.S. Prisons
November 30 – December 1, 2017
Harvard Medical School Campus, Boston, MA
The United States leads the world in incarceration. The “War on Drugs” and prioritizing punishment over rehabilitation has led to mass imprisonment, mainly of the nation’s most vulnerable populations: people of color, the economically disadvantaged and undereducated, and those suffering from mental illness. Although these social disparities are striking, the health discrepancies are even more pronounced. What can be done to address this health and human rights crisis?
This conference will examine various aspects of human rights and health issues in our prisons. In collaboration with educators, health professionals, and those involved in the criminal justice system—including formerly incarcerated people, advocates, and law enforcement—the conference will clarify the issues, explore possible policy and educational responses, and establish avenues for action.
This conference is open to the public. Registration is required to attend. There is a $50 refreshment fee to offset costs for meals during the conference, and to reduce waste. If this fee would prevent you from attending, please contact the Center for Bioethics at 617-432-2570 for assistance with your registration.