Childbirth in Chains

A fellow Young Feminist Task Force member posted the following on her facebook. She writes, "Only 5 states have anti-shackling laws... that means the other 45 are still doing this."

Editorial - Childbirth in Chains - NYTimes.com
Source: www.nytimes.com
Gov. David Paterson should sign an antishackling bill that would end the use of restraints for female prisoners in labor.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists called several years ago for an end to the barbaric and medically hazardous practice of shackling female prisoners during labor. In addition to further frightening these vulnerable women, the practice of chaining their legs, wrists and even their abdomens makes treatment and delivery more difficult and places mother and child at greater risk of harm.

Posted by:
Jerin Alam
National NOW Young Feminist Task Force
National Organization for Women (NOW)