The Kentucky State Penitentiary, located in Eddyville, KY, currently houses inmates in conditions that do not respect basic human dignity. Among reported issues are overcrowded cells, inadequate medical care, insufficient nutritious food, not enough phones for the inmates to contact their families, overflowing sewage system which leaks into the cells and servers into their food and a lack of proper rehabilitation programs. All of this leads to an increase in violence and heightened tense environment.

These men are in living in horrible conditions. They are physically sick from heat exhaustion, their cells are overheating, making it hard for some of them to eat, sleep and even breathe. Medical staff and psychiatric staff are neglecting any type of care not responding to any requests. 
Besides not having any proper humane conditions, this facility is purposefully keeping these men away from their families by not providing enough time or resources for these men to call their loved ones. There are 14 other phones for over 1000 men, and not everyone has a tablet to write home to their families. 
All of this increases violence and tensions, as well as psychologically keeping these men unstable. 

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), prisons like these often violate the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits "cruel and unusual punishment." Additionally, overcrowded environments are not conducive to inmate reform but are linked with higher rates of violence and recidivism (source: The Institute for Criminal Policy Research).

We must prioritize the humane treatment and rehabilitation of inmates at the Kentucky State Penitentiary. The U.S. is home to 5% of the world's population, yet it contains 25% of the total global prisoners (source: The National Research Council), proving that it is a systemic issue that needs addressing. By improving state penitentiary conditions, we set a precedent for change, promoting fair and just treatment for prisoners in the system.

To the decision-makers of Eddyville, KY—we call upon you to review the penal system in place, assess the concerns raised, and take the necessary steps to ensure that Kentucky State Penitentiary meets the standard for human rights and rehabilitation. We demand change, justice, and reform. Please sign the petition and let our voices be heard.