We, the undersigned, call for an end to unfair phone practices imposed on detainees at the Minnesota Sex Offender Program. Current policies regarding phone communication in this shadow prison often exploit vulnerable populations, including detainees and their families, by putting unnecessary restrictions on essential communication services. These practices not only hinder rehabilitation and reintegration efforts by limiting crucial connections between detainees and their support networks but is a direct violation of basic human rights.

The current policy that went into effect on July 1, 2024, states that detainees are only allowed to make one phone call every two hours and that this one phone call cannot exceed 15 minutes. Additionally, if a voicemail answers, this will count as a “completed” phone call, and the detainee will have to wait another two hours to make a call to their families. This change in policy is due to the Minnesota passing legislation that makes all phone calls free to those incarcerated or civilly committed.

Incarcerated individuals rely heavily on phone calls to maintain familial bonds, receive legal counsel, and access educational resources. However, this new policy severely restricts their ability to have meaningful contact with their friends, family, and advocates.

By signing this petition, we stand in solidarity with detainees’ and their families, advocating for policies that uphold their rights to meaningful communication without restricting their fundamental civil rights. Together, we can work towards a more just and equitable system that respects the dignity and humanity of all individuals, regardless of their incarceration status.