Journal # 6

 

Jane Maher is an example of a woman trying to make a difference in this world by helping women who are convicted felons. In “Raw Material”, Mrs. Maher discusses her experience as a teacher in Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women in Westchester, NY. Jane Maher explains the circumstances and the hardships faced when trying to establish an educational system in a prison. There are simply not enough funds and resources to conduct a program that encourages these women to better themselves. The lacks of resources result in women returning to prison after they have been released.

After reading this article I sympathize with both the prisoners and the victims. I question the motives of these prisoners and wonder what kind of traumatic events occurred in their pasts that resulted in them committing a crime. I think in order to lessen crime rates education should be a priority. Knowledge is the key to a successful future because it pushes someone to have goals. Most of these women have been abused and used growing up and so they feel unworthy of succeeding. The first step into becoming sufficient members of society is to feel empowered and have self-confidence because we are all capable of greatness.