Born in Chains

Chilbirth in Chains, an article in The New York Times, brings to light the issue of shackling female prisoners while giving birth. According to the article, for years and years it was a rule that women incarcerated in prison must be tied in chains from both arms in legs during labor in order to prevent them from either causing danger to themselves, the doctors or the even the newborn child. Recent debated has sparked over an anti-shackling bill in the state of New York that would stop such practice in this state. However, the author strongly states he is completely for the idea of imposing this new bill and I must say I agree. Intended for a national audience, but more specifically for the citizens of New York, the author makes a convincing argument. Not only is this treatment "barbaric and medically hazardous" but it also puts both mother and child in greater risk for any sort of injury. It is a frightening and dangerous practice. The author also improves her credibility in proving that this bill is definitely worth passing by making references to other five states that have "similar policies" of an anti-shackling bill. Although these other states have approved of similar policies, the state of New York is still arguing about how many women are actually shackled during labor, and according to recent interviews of female prisoners in the state of New York, the practice is more common than what individuals actually know. Therefore, the author provides definite evidence to show that this malicious practice is still occuring and harming female inmates today. Additionally the author provides the reader with the obvious, and more logical statement that, "it seems highly unlikely that a woman doubled over in labor pains would be able to attempt an escape or overcome corrections officers". If we really think about it, it makes almost no sense to tie up a women who is already in pain, just to prevent taking extra strength to harm others. The author puts it plain and simple, Governor Paterson should sign the bill into law and allow New York to do as other states and the federal government have done, which is to "have wisely acted to protect pregnant inmates and their children during labor".