The United States incarcerates more of its citizens than any other nation in the world and the number of women in U.S. prisons has been increasing at a rate that is 50% higher than men since 1980. More than 60% of women in state prisons have a child under the age of 18. What are the impact of these statistics on our communities and on women’s emotional, physical, and political selves? What can be done to steer awareness toward actions and strategies to counter the policies and laws that have created these realities? What opportunities and support can women access upon release? With Piper Kerman, Christine Pahigian, and Vivian Nixon. Moderated by Kate Landon.

This is a ticketed event ($10) and is part of the 2017 PEN World Voices Festival.

Co-presented with New York Women’s Foundation

Hosted by the Cooper Union Office of Continuing Education and Public Programs