“The Effects of PTSD are Real and Easily Triggered by Male Presence”
I do not agree with Senate Bill 132 that was written by Senator Scott Weiner, and irresponsibly signed by governor Newsom, that says the bill will support the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s efforts to provide a safe, humane, respectful and rehabilitative environment for the incarcerated transgender, non-binary and intersex community.
What about the women here at CIW?
Allegedly, last fall, there was a survey given to those this law would impact. No one at CIW participated in the survey nor did those activists in the community advocate for our most basic human rights.
It is my understanding that neither genitals nor an inmate's criminal history are considered when their request to transfer is granted.
Imagine the horror of a possible sex offender with a penis moving to a woman’s cell, showering with us, and working alongside us. For women including myself who have witnessed domestic abuse and endured molestation--the effects of PTSD are real and easily triggered by male presence.
Now imagine the physical/sexual damage a biological male inmate could do to me… Especially when he decides to stop taking hormone therapy like Richard Masbruch did. CDCR caters to these people because they fear legal ramifications. Why not put them in their own prison? Their rights cannot come at the cost of the women housed here.
I am requesting that revisions are made to SB 132 that address the safety concerns. I also request that the women housed here at CIW are included not only in this request, but in all future changes in the legislation that directly affect us mentally and physically.
Thank you in advance.