#13th Amendment to the US Constitution legalizes US slavery

[whencyclopedia]

African Slave Life in Colonial British America

African slave life in Colonial British America was far worse than slavery practiced in the Americas prior to the arrival of Europeans. The indigenous tribes took people as slaves in raids, enslaved those convicted of crimes, and traded slaves between tribes but the enslaved were thought to have done something to deserve their fate.

The racial, institutionalized slavery practiced by the English colonists of North America departed from this paradigm by enslaving people who had nothing whatsoever to do with the English, forcing them to work for the remainder of their lives as slaves, and claiming their children as property which could be sold.

The life of a slave in Colonial America differed from colony-to-colony but had one aspect in common: the slave had no rights as a human being and was considered property of the master just as a wagon, mill stone, or axe would be. The white master could, and usually did, treat the slave as just another possession to be used and then disposed of when it no longer functioned as expected.

Africans were often enslaved by those of other tribes and then sold to European slave traders or were kidnapped by Europeans directly. Frequently, those who enslaved fellow Africans found themselves drugged, manacled, and shipped with those they had brought to the slave market. Once arrived in North America, the slave would be worked, in the Southern Colonies at least, from dawn until dusk six days a week, living under the worst conditions, and subject to sale by their owners just as any rake, hoe, or hammer might be. Slave life in Colonial America continued according to this paradigm from c. 1660 until slavery was abolished by the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States in 1865.

Virginia & the First Slaves

The first Africans in North America arrived in Jamestown, Virginia in 1619 aboard a Dutch ship that needed supplies. These 20 or 21 individuals were purchased for the necessary supplies by then-governor Yeardley (l. 1587-1627) who put them to work on his plantation. At this point, the English had no concept of racialized slavery and, in fact, slavery had been abolished in England centuries before, so these first Africans were treated as indentured servants, given a set term of service ending in freedom and reward of land. Scholar David A. Price comments:

Although it is tempting to assume that these first recorded Africans in English America were also the first slaves, there is evidence to suggest they were not. They may instead have had the legal position of indentured servants, like many of the white newcomers, eligible for freedom after completing a period of service. (197)

This paradigm changed in 1640 with the enslavement of an indentured black servant named John Punch. Punch left his master’s service before his time was up, claiming poor treatment, along with two white servants. When the three were caught and returned, the white servants were punished with four years added to their servitude, but Punch was sentenced to lifelong enslavement. After this event, Virginia began passing laws restricting the rights of the black population, instituting slave laws in the 1660’s, and becoming an active participant in the Transatlantic Slave Trade made possible by the Triangle Trade route.

Continue reading...

[kny111]

Do World Powers Engage in Subtle Systemic Slavery or Overt Systemic Slavery? It doesn’t Matter. Slavery is Slavery & It Will Never Be Needed Especially Not As A System.

The United States along with other world powers and those that serve them have created this ‘using us, yet against us’ system. We need to change this. The fire James Baldwin spoke of, the very merited rage those enslaved have against this system, is well overdue.

Those who serve a government that knowingly allow for enslavement still and lie to people about it being abolished when their own amendment backs daily institutional and systemic enslavement when it allows “slavery is abolished except in punishment or crime“. This does nothing to remove slavery as a systemic feature from this governing system and you are implicit.

                                                                                                by - K, Blog Admin

What happens when we as a community repurpose the instruments of science and evidence gathering and focus on the 13th amendment? This piece of document literally allows for enslavement. What has been created in its wake? Here’s the thing, when colonial imperial powers in Europe said okay when issues occur we’re gonna call them ‘crime’  they meant it as a word to account for social norms being breached and a sort of “holler if you hear me“ approach to solving those issues was laid out institutionally which included neighborhood watch people that could process this. They later became police. Between that time and the present 2023, legislature and policy reshaped crime and policing, as well as the defending of issues through military, crime became systemically synonymous with prisons/cages/slavery to solve those issues. From the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and its bolstering of these pro enslavement laws to this past historical investment in this strange notion of punishing others so physically, violently to the benefit of a system, a legalized market of slavery was formed and continues to persist with similar legislative and political play on words as they did with the 13th amendment’s clause: The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."

When you specifically write into law and action that amendments create and actualize the means to the system we use, what are you enacting when you pronounce through this same mechanism that “no slavery shall exist within the united states or any place subject to its jurisdiction - EXCEPT as punishment for crime“? We need to, as a people really inspect this slowly and carefully because science has yet to produce any evidence that says punishment at that level and method is required to solve these issues so where is this evidence that says that type of punishment is even needed for the people to “fall in line”?

Secondly, isn’t it evident that processing issues as merely ‘crime’ is factually bringing us more structural issues than not because not every issue can be generalized to crime and often times the word crime itself just doesn’t do nearly enough to account for the disabled community and many other far reaching issues.

These aren’t assumptions, these are educated deductions based on statistical data provided by the errors of the running system. Again, it has yet to produce reputable convincing evidence that establishes prisons, crime, and cops/ slave patrol systems they synergized with as effective means to solve the issues we as a society constantly face. And with this same lack of adhering to scientific facts are we supposed to feel comforted by these slave industry agents, legislators and policy makers that allow for that amendment to exist as is because they know it buys them that much time to not worry of their implicitness in enslavement of others? I implore everyone watch the documentary by Ava DuVernay 13th available for free on youtube from NetFlix due to its educational merit. This documentary is like a course 101 on understanding just how much of an issue enslavement systems are and how synonymous prisons and cops are to slave markets and patrols. It gets right to the problem of slavery, what scriptures did they use to embed it into our social mainframe? did it exist back then? Yes, Is it gone? No, it let’s us know it’s still active and strategies by white supremacists and slavers then benefit their lineages and communities now.

They have a lot of control over the systems that try to govern us. Reconfiguring, inspecting and enacting amendments at this level will be required for us to do something meaningful against this oppressive system and its unsustainable, inefficient amalgamation with slavery markets as a resource system.

Reparations for those harmed by these systems as well as systemic decolonization strategies will be commonly needed. We need documentaries like this and similar subject media to help the public understand the necessary steps to abolish prisons and repurposing the military that serve them away from the rich’s interest and focus on the people. Since all defending this slavery system are implicit. 13th by Ava DuVernay is available now on YouTube for free via NetFlix along with other educational documentaries

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Voters in three states approved ballot measures that will change their state constitutions to prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime, while those in a fourth state rejected the move. The measures approved Tuesday curtail the use of prison labor in Alabama, Tennessee and Vermont. In Oregon, “yes” was leading its anti-slavery ballot initiative, but the vote remained too early to call Wednesday morning.

In Louisiana, a former slave-holding state, voters rejected a ballot question known as Amendment 7 that asked whether they supported a constitutional amendment to prohibit the use of involuntary servitude in the criminal justice system.

The initiatives won’t force immediate changes in the states’ prisons, but they may invite legal challenges over the practice of coercing prisoners to work under threat of sanctions or loss of privileges if they refuse the work.

The results were celebrated among anti-slavery advocates, including those pushing to further amend the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits enslavement and involuntary servitude except as a form of criminal punishment. More than 150 years after enslaved Africans and their descendants were released from bondage through ratification of the 13th Amendment, the slavery exception continues to permit the exploitation of low-cost labor by incarcerated individuals.

“Voters in Oregon and other states have come together across party lines to say that this stain must be removed from state constitutions,” Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley, a Democrat, told The Associated Press.

“Now, it is time for all Americans to come together and say that it must be struck from the U.S. Constitution. There should be no exceptions to a ban on slavery,” he said.

Coinciding with the creation of the Juneteenth federal holiday last year, Merkley and Rep. Nikema Williams, D-Georgia, reintroduced legislation to revise the 13th Amendment to end the slavery exception. If it wins approval in Congress, the constitutional amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of U.S. states.

After Tuesday’s vote, more than a dozen states still have constitutions that include language permitting slavery and involuntary servitude for prisoners. Several other states have no constitutional language for or against the use of forced prison labor.

Voters in Colorado became the first to approve removal of slavery exception language from the state constitution in 2018, followed by Nebraska and Utah two years later.

The movement to end or regulate the use of prison labor has existed for decades, since the time when former Confederate states sought ways to maintain the use of chattel slavery after the Civil War. Southern states used racist laws, referred to as “Black codes,” to criminalize, imprison and re-enslave Black Americans over benign behavior.

Today, prison labor is a multibillion-dollar practice. By comparison, workers can make pennies on the dollar. And prisoners who refuse to work can be denied privileges such as phone calls and visits with family, as well as face solitary confinement, all punishments that are eerily similar to those used during antebellum slavery.

“The 13th Amendment didn’t actually abolish slavery — what it did was make it invisible,” Bianca Tylek, an anti-slavery advocate and the executive director of the criminal justice advocacy group Worth Rises, told the AP in an interview ahead of Election Day.

She said passage of the ballot initiatives, especially in red states like Alabama, “is a great signal for what’s possible at the federal level.”

“There is a big opportunity here, in this moment,” Tylek said.

[thoughtportal]

Intricate, invisible webs, just like this one, link some of the world’s largest food companies and most popular brands to jobs performed by U.S. prisoners nationwide, according to a sweeping two-year AP investigation into prison labor that tied hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of agricultural products to goods sold on the open market.

They are among America’s most vulnerable laborers. If they refuse to work, some can jeopardize their chances of parole or face punishment like being sent to solitary confinement. They also are often excluded from protections guaranteed to almost all other full-time workers, even when they are seriously injured or killed on the job.

The goods these prisoners produce wind up in the supply chains of a dizzying array of products found in most American kitchens, from Frosted Flakes cereal and Ball Park hot dogs to Gold Medal flour, Coca-Cola and Riceland rice. They are on the shelves of virtually every supermarket in the country, including Kroger, Target, Aldi and Whole Foods. And some goods are exported, including to countries that have had products blocked from entering the U.S. for using forced or prison labor.

Many of the companies buying directly from prisons are violating their own policies against the use of such labor. But it’s completely legal, dating back largely to the need for labor to help rebuild the South’s shattered economy after the Civil War. Enshrined in the Constitution by the 13th Amendment, slavery and involuntary servitude are banned – except as punishment for a crime.

That clause is currently being challenged on the federal level, and efforts to remove similar language from state constitutions are expected to reach the ballot in about a dozen states this year.

Some prisoners work on the same plantation soil where slaves harvested cotton, tobacco and sugarcane more than 150 years ago, with some present-day images looking eerily similar to the past. In Louisiana, which has one of the country’s highest incarceration rates, men working on the “farm line” still stoop over crops stretching far into the distance. {read}

[zinger-begonia]

ANGOLA, La. (AP) — A hidden path to America’s dinner tables begins here, at an unlikely source – a former Southern slave plantation that is now the country’s largest maximum-security prison. Unmarked trucks packed with prison-raised cattle roll out of the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where men are sentenced to hard labor and forced to work, for pennies an hour or sometimes nothing at all. After rumbling down a country road to an auction house, the cows are bought by a local rancher and then followed by The Associated Press another 600 miles to a Texas slaughterhouse that feeds into the supply chains of giants like McDonald’s, Walmart and Cargill. ... They are among America’s most vulnerable laborers. If they refuse to work, some can jeopardize their chances of parole or face punishment like being sent to solitary confinement. They also are often excluded from protections guaranteed to almost all other full-time workers, even when they are seriously injured or killed on the job. ... Many of the companies buying directly from prisons are violating their own policies against the use of such labor. But it’s completely legal, dating back largely to the need for labor to help rebuild the South’s shattered economy after the Civil War. Enshrined in the Constitution by the 13th Amendment, slavery and involuntary servitude are banned – except as punishment for a crime. That clause is currently being challenged on the federal level, and efforts to remove similar language from state constitutions are expected to reach the ballot in about a dozen states this year. ... While most critics don’t believe all jobs should be eliminated, they say incarcerated people should be paid fairly, treated humanely and that all work should be voluntary. Some note that even when people get specialized training, like firefighting, their criminal records can make it almost impossible to get hired on the outside. “They are largely uncompensated, they are being forced to work, and it’s unsafe. They also aren’t learning skills that will help them when they are released,” said law professor Andrea Armstrong, an expert on prison labor at Loyola University New Orleans. “It raises the question of why we are still forcing people to work in the fields.”

The article goes on, but this is sickening enough. It's slavery. I hate this. I hate that my food is grown using slavery. I want to boycott every company that uses slavery.

[fraterrisus]

Happy Juneteenth everyone; a reminder that slavery is still legal in most of the United States. Quoting from the 13th Amendment (emphasis mine):

Section 1. Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.

This was explicitly used against former slaves in the years after the 13th Amendment was passed. Invent a crime, charge Black people with it, sentence them to labor camps. Voila, slaves. [Search term: "Black Codes"]

Things have changed since then... slightly. The rules vary from state to state, but in general, "paid" prisoner labor is available for less than $1/hour, and that's before the prison deducts "costs" for room and board or administering the "employment" system. Prisons, meanwhile, reap the benefit of over $2000 per year per inmate in tax credits. You do the math. [Search term: "Penal labor"]

There has been some recent progress: several states have closed the loophole by amending their state constitutions, and there is a constitutional amendment kicking around Congress called "the Abolition Amendment" that would close it at the federal level. [Search term: "Abolition Amendment"]

The links above are to individual sources that I think do a good job of describing the situation. I highly recommend you do your own research on this, by plugging those terms into your favorite search engine. ("13th Amendment loophole" is also a good one.)

[dogsuffrage]

Non-penal slavery was permitted by the laws of the United States until 1942. Debt slavery persisted through to 1942 and was defended in court by arguing that, while the 13th amendment says slavery shall not exist, it does not actually make slaveholding a crime, so they could continue to operate slave plantations without legal issue. In fact, debt peonage was a crime, so they had to argue that the debts were fictitious and it was just an excuse to enslave people. They explicitly stated that. The United States only actively began dismantling this form of slavery because they had entered WW2 and were concerned that the Japanese government would push propaganda shining a light on the fact that slavery was still widely practiced in the US and would nullify any propaganda the US could make about Japanese slavery, and they believed the Japanese propaganda would be too compelling to allow.

On a similar topic, after the Civil War, the South began a widespread policy of arresting freed black men on bullshit charges (when you see those lists of "wackiest laws in each state!" many of them are holdovers from when states passed a series of obscure laws to allow them to arrest black people at will) and sentencing them to long terms of hard labor in which a third of those sent to these labor camps would die. This is also the origin of criminalizing homelessness and unemployment. Black people were freed and then told to either immediately enter into debt slavery or go to a labor camp for the crime of being unemployed. In the years following the Civil War, 1/5 of freed black people were arrested and sentenced to this form of labor, including children. These remained legal until 1928, and after 1928 were just replaced with other forms of prison slavery. In the 1920s, the plurality of all of those arrested and sent to these camps were arrested for drinking. And in fact Southern states enacted Prohibition before it was in the Constitution largely as a means to supplement their continued penal slavery. It was a precursor to the War on Drugs today.

[arpov-blog-blog]

..."The goods these prisoners produce wind up in the supply chains of a dizzying array of products found in most American kitchens, from Frosted Flakes cereal and Ball Park hot dogs to Gold Medal flour, Coca-Cola and Riceland rice. They are on the shelves of virtually every supermarket in the country, including Kroger, Target, Aldi and Whole Foods. And some goods are exported, including to countries that have had products blocked from entering the U.S. for using forced or prison labor.

Many of the companies buying directly from prisons are violating their own policies against the use of such labor. But it’s completely legal, dating back largely to the need for labor to help rebuild the South’s shattered economy after the Civil War. Enshrined in the Constitution by the 13th Amendment, slavery and involuntary servitude are banned – except as punishment for a crime.

That clause is currently being challenged on the federal level, and efforts to remove similar language from state constitutions are expected to reach the ballot in about a dozen states this year.

Some prisoners work on the same plantation soil where slaves harvested cotton, tobacco and sugarcane more than 150 years ago, with some present-day images looking eerily similar to the past. In Louisiana, which has one of the country’s highest incarceration rates, men working on the “farm line” still stoop over crops stretching far into the distance.

Willie Ingram picked everything from cotton to okra during his 51 years in the state penitentiary, better known as Angola.

During his time in the fields, he was overseen by armed guards on horseback and recalled seeing men, working with little or no water, passing out in triple-digit heat. Some days, he said, workers would throw their tools in the air to protest, despite knowing the potential consequences.

“They’d come, maybe four in the truck, shields over their face, billy clubs, and they’d beat you right there in the field. They beat you, handcuff you and beat you again,” said Ingram, who received a life sentence after pleading guilty to a crime he said he didn’t commit. He was told he would serve 10 ½ years and avoid a possible death penalty, but it wasn’t until 2021 that a sympathetic judge finally released him. He was 73.

The number of people behind bars in the United States started to soar in the 1970s just as Ingram entered the system, disproportionately hitting people of color. Now, with about 2 million people locked up, U.S. prison labor from all sectors has morphed into a multibillion-dollar empire, extending far beyond the classic images of prisoners stamping license plates, working on road crews or battling wildfires.

Though almost every state has some kind of farming program, agriculture represents only a small fraction of the overall prison workforce. Still, an analysis of data amassed by the AP from correctional facilities nationwide traced nearly $200 million worth of sales of farmed goods and livestock to businesses over the past six years – a conservative figure that does not include tens of millions more in sales to state and government entities. Much of the data provided was incomplete, though it was clear that the biggest revenues came from sprawling operations in the South and leasing out prisoners to companies.

Corrections officials and other proponents note that not all work is forced and that prison jobs save taxpayers money. For example, in some cases, the food produced is served in prison kitchens or donated to those in need outside. They also say workers are learning skills that can be used when they’re released and given a sense of purpose, which could help ward off repeat offenses. In some places, it allows prisoners to also shave time off their sentences. And the jobs provide a way to repay a debt to society, they say.

While most critics don’t believe all jobs should be eliminated, they say incarcerated people should be paid fairly, treated humanely and that all work should be voluntary. Some note that even when people get specialized training, like firefighting, their criminal records can make it almost impossible to get hired on the outside.

“They are largely uncompensated, they are being forced to work, and it’s unsafe. They also aren’t learning skills that will help them when they are released,” said law professor Andrea Armstrong, an expert on prison labor at Loyola University New Orleans. “It raises the question of why we are still forcing people to work in the fields.”

[burritosandpeppermint]

Hell of a lede line:

"ANGOLA, La. (AP) — A hidden path to America’s dinner tables begins here, at an unlikely source – a former Southern slave plantation that is now the country’s largest maximum-security prison."

And then, a little further down, the stark reality of the continued legality of slavery in the United States:

"Enshrined in the Constitution by the 13th Amendment, slavery and involuntary servitude are banned – except as punishment for a crime."

Most of the corporations that directly or indirectly use slave labor are in this screenshot:

[michaelcosio]

THE ORIGINS OF MODERN DAY POLICING

"Tough on crime" laws have put an unprecedented number of non-violent offenders behind bars and our neighborhoods feel no more secure. This system has deep roots in slavery.

SLAVE PATROLS

The origins of modern-day policing can be traced back to the "Slave Patrol." The earliest formal slave patrol was created in the Carolinas in the early 1700s with one mission: to establish a system of terror and squash slave uprisings with the capacity to pursue, apprehend, and return runaway slaves to their owners. Tactics included the use of excessive force to control and produce desired slave behavior.

"I [patroller's name], do swear, that I will as searcher for guns, swords, and other weapons among the slaves in my district, faithfully, and as privately as I can, discharge the trust reposed in me as the law directs, to the best of my power. So help me, God."

North Carolina Slave Patrol Oath

Slave Patrols continued until the end of the Civil War and the passage of the 13th Amendment. Following the Civil War, during Reconstruction, slave patrols were replaced by militia-style groups who were empowered to control and deny access to equal rights to freed slaves. They relentlessly and systematically enforced Black Codes, strict local and state laws that regulated and restricted access to labor, wages, voting rights, and general freedoms for formerly enslaved people.

In 1868, ratification of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution technically granted equal protections to African Americans — essentially abolishing Black Codes. Jim Crow laws and state and local statutes that legalized racial segregation swiftly took their place.

By the 1900s, local municipalities began to establish police departments to enforce local laws in the East and Midwest, including Jim Crow laws. Local municipalities leaned on police to enforce and exert excessive brutality on African Americans who violated any Jim Crow law. Jim Crow Laws continued through the end of the 1960s.

"The crisis in policing is the culmination of a thousand other failures — failures of education, social services, public health, gun regulation, criminal justice, and economic development."

The New Yorker, July 13, 2020

A CONTINUING BIAS

The criminal justice system is heavily impacted by the bias of police mentality and outdated judicial precedents. The system is largely driven by racial disparities and the Black community continues to be a target. The results are brutal and long lasting.

"All cruelty begins with dehumanization — not seeing the face of the other, not seeing the whole humanity of the other. A cultural regime of dehumanization has been constructed in many police departments. In that fertile ground, racial biases can spread and become entrenched."

The Atlantic, (June 16, 2020),The Culture of Policing is Broken

The legacy and effects of biased policing are far reaching. The U.S. is home to the world's largest prison population and the highest per-capita incarceration rate. As of May 2020, there were 655 people incarcerated per 100,000. Prison, parole, and probation operations cost U.S. taxpayers $81 billion a year.

The relationship between law enforcement and our communities is fractured because of decades of a bad system that has let countless issues go unaddressed.

- Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO

DID YOU KNOW?

HOLDING POLICE OFFICERS ACCOUNTABLE IS DIFFICULT

In 2020, there were 1,021 fatal police shootings, and in 2019 there were 999 fatal shootings. Additionally, the rate of fatal police shootings among Black Americans was much higher than that for any other ethnicity, standing at 35 fatal shootings per million of the population as of March 2021. (statistica.com)

Since 2005 (through June 24, 2019), 104 non-federal law enforcement officers have been arrested in connection with fatal, on-duty shootings. (Police Integrity Research Group, Bowling Green State University)

To date, only 35 of these officers have been convicted of a crime, often a lesser offense such as manslaughter or negligent homicide, rather than murder.

Only four officers have been convicted of murder during this period and seen their convictions stand.

Another 23 officers were acquitted in a jury trial and nine were acquitted during a bench trial decided by a judge.

Eleven other cases were dismissed by a judge or a prosecutor and in one instance, no true bill was returned from a grand jury.

Currently, there are 24 non-federal law enforcement officers with pending criminal cases for fatal shootings.

THE COST OF POLICE BRUTALITY IS HIGH

While many police brutality and fatal police shootings are not prosecuted in criminal court, victims and the families of victims have been able to pursue civil judgments, which cost millions of taxpayers dollars each year.

$175.9 million in civil judgments and claims for police-related lawsuits was paid by New York City during the 2019 fiscal year. New York City has the largest police force with 36,000 members serving 8.3 million people.

$500 million was paid out by the City of Chicago between 2004 and 2014 for police misconduct-related lawsuits. The Chicago police department has 12,000 officers serving 2.7 million people.

THE NEED FOR A SMARTER CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

We advocate for smarter, positive, results-based criminal justice policies to keep our communities safe. These policies include issues that are very important to us: treatment for mental health issues and addiction, judicial discretion in sentencing, and an end to racial disparities at all levels of the system.

65%

Percentage of Black American adults who have felt targeted because of their race.

from The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

[crazyfilterlady2024]

"Locked Up, Fed Up: The Explosive Truth Behind America's Food Chain"

"From Plantation to Plate: Unveiling America's Prison Labor Supply Chain"

Description: Dive into the hidden world of America's food supply chain, where the journey from plantation to plate takes a surprising turn through the country's largest maximum-security prison. Follow the unmarked trucks packed with prison-raised cattle as they roll out of the Louisiana State Penitentiary, linking some of the world's largest food companies to a labor force of incarcerated individuals. Explore the intricate web connecting popular brands like McDonald’s, Walmart, and Cargill to jobs performed by prisoners, shedding light on a system rife with exploitation and ethical questions. Join us as we uncover the dark reality behind the food on America's dinner tables and challenge the notion of justice in the nation's prisons.

"Unravel the Hidden Threads: Explore the Intricate Web of America's Prison Labor Supply Chain, From Plantation to Plate!"

In the shadows of America's bustling food industry lies a complex and often overlooked supply chain fueled by the labor of incarcerated individuals. This web of prison labor, stretching from plantation fields to dinner plates, serves as the backbone of many household brands, yet its intricacies remain hidden from the public eye. As we peel back the layers of this system, we uncover a story of exploitation, resilience, and the stark realities of modern-day incarceration.

At the heart of this supply chain are the former Southern slave plantations, reincarnated as maximum-security prisons, where men are sentenced to hard labor for meager wages or sometimes no compensation at all. Unmarked trucks packed with cattle raised within the confines of these prisons roll out, their destination a Texas slaughterhouse feeding into the supply chains of corporate giants like McDonald's, Walmart, and Cargill. The journey from prison to plate is a covert operation, shrouded in secrecy yet integral to the profitability of these multibillion-dollar corporations.

The intricate web of prison labor extends far beyond the agricultural sector, infiltrating every aspect of the food industry. From processing plants to fast-food chains, incarcerated individuals toil away, their labor essential to meeting production quotas and driving profits. Yet, behind the veneer of economic efficiency lies a system rife with exploitation and abuse. Prisoners who refuse to work risk jeopardizing their chances of parole or facing punishment, while those who do often receive meager wages and lack basic workplace protections.

Despite the constitutional ban on slavery and involuntary servitude, the 13th Amendment's exception clause has provided legal cover for the exploitation of incarcerated labor. This loophole has been exploited by corporations seeking to capitalize on cheap and readily available workforce, reminiscent of the convict-leasing practices of the post-Civil War era. Today, the prison-industrial complex has evolved into a multibillion-dollar empire, perpetuating cycles of poverty and incarceration disproportionately affecting communities of color.

As consumers, we are complicit in sustaining this system through our purchasing choices, unwittingly supporting brands that rely on prison labor to drive down production costs. The food on our tables, from cereal to chicken nuggets, bears the invisible imprint of incarcerated hands. Yet, awareness is the first step towards accountability, and by unraveling the hidden threads of America's prison labor supply chain, we can demand transparency and ethical sourcing practices from the companies we patronize.

In the fight for justice, incarcerated individuals are often the most vulnerable and voiceless members of society. Denied basic rights and protections, they are forced to work under conditions akin to modern-day slavery, their labor exploited for corporate gain. It is incumbent upon us to shine a light on this hidden injustice, to amplify the voices of those silenced by incarceration, and to advocate for meaningful reform within the criminal justice system.

"Unraveling America's Prison Labor Supply Chain" is not just a call to action; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that behind every product we consume lies a story, and it is up to us to ensure that story is one of dignity, fairness, and respect for all. Join us as we peel back the layers of secrecy and expose the truth behind America's prison labor system, from plantation to plate.

"From Chains to Chainsaws: Delve into the Untold Story of Prison Labor, Where America's Food Supply Meets Unseen Labor Forces."

In the intricate tapestry of America's food supply chain lies a hidden layer of labor, where the hands that toil often remain unseen and unheard. Behind the glossy packaging and supermarket shelves, incarcerated individuals form an essential yet invisible workforce, contributing to every stage of production from farm to table. This untold story of prison labor reveals the stark realities of a system built on exploitation and injustice, where chains of incarceration intersect with the demands of corporate profit.

From the vast expanses of former Southern plantations, now reincarnated as maximum-security prisons, to the bustling processing plants of multinational corporations, the journey of food from field to fork is marked by the labor of the incarcerated. Unmarked trucks transport cattle raised within prison walls to slaughterhouses, where their meat enters the supply chains of household names like McDonald's, Walmart, and Tyson Foods. Meanwhile, within the prison walls, individuals work for meager wages or no compensation at all, their labor fueling the profits of billion-dollar corporations.

The story of prison labor is one of exploitation and coercion, where incarcerated individuals are often compelled to work under threat of punishment or loss of privileges. Denied basic rights and protections, they face hazardous working conditions and lack access to adequate healthcare. Yet, their labor remains vital to the functioning of the food industry, driving down production costs and maximizing corporate profits. In this system, the pursuit of economic efficiency takes precedence over human dignity and well-being.

Despite the constitutional prohibition on slavery and involuntary servitude, the 13th Amendment's exception clause has provided a legal loophole for the exploitation of incarcerated labor. This loophole has been exploited by corporations seeking to capitalize on a captive and cheap workforce, perpetuating cycles of poverty and incarceration within marginalized communities. The intersection of race, class, and criminal justice further exacerbates these inequalities, disproportionately affecting communities of color.

As consumers, we are complicit in sustaining this system through our purchasing choices, unwittingly supporting brands that rely on prison labor to meet consumer demand. From fresh produce to processed foods, the products that line our supermarket aisles bear the unseen imprint of incarcerated hands. Yet, awareness is the first step towards accountability, and by shining a light on the hidden realities of prison labor, we can demand transparency and ethical sourcing practices from the companies we patronize.

The story of prison labor is not just one of exploitation and injustice; it is also a story of resilience and resistance. Despite facing insurmountable odds, incarcerated individuals continue to assert their humanity and demand recognition of their rights. From organizing strikes to advocating for policy reform, they are fighting for dignity and justice within a system that seeks to dehumanize and exploit them. It is time to listen to their voices, to acknowledge their contributions, and to work towards a more equitable and just society.

"From Chains to Chainsaws: Uncovering the Invisible Hands of America's Food Supply Chain" invites viewers to delve into the untold story of prison labor, where chains of incarceration intersect with the demands of corporate profit. By shedding light on this hidden reality, we can spark meaningful conversations, drive positive change, and ensure that the hands that feed us are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Join us as we uncover the invisible forces shaping America's food system and work towards a more just and equitable future for all.

"Bars to Brands: Inside America's Incarcerated Labor Supply Chain"

In the shadows of America's prison walls lies a hidden world of labor, where the incarcerated toil to feed the insatiable appetites of some of the world's biggest brands. "Bars to Brands: Inside America's Incarcerated Labor Supply Chain" takes viewers on a journey behind the bars and beyond borders to uncover the shocking truth of how prison labor intersects with global commerce.

From the bustling kitchens of fast-food giants to the sprawling fields of industrial agriculture, incarcerated individuals form an essential yet invisible workforce, powering the supply chains of household names like McDonald's, Walmart, and Coca-Cola. Unmarked trucks packed with prison-raised cattle roll out of maximum-security prisons, while rows of crops stretch far into the distance, tended by hands bound by chains of incarceration.

Yet, behind the glossy packaging and familiar logos lies a story of exploitation and injustice. Forced to work for meager wages or no compensation at all, incarcerated individuals face hazardous conditions and lack access to basic protections. Denied the most fundamental rights, they are coerced into labor under the threat of punishment or loss of privileges. Despite the abolition of slavery, the 13th Amendment's exception clause has provided a legal loophole for the exploitation of incarcerated labor, perpetuating cycles of poverty and incarceration within marginalized communities.

"Bars to Brands" exposes the human cost of corporate profit, highlighting the intersecting injustices of race, class, and criminal justice. From the cotton fields of former Southern plantations to the processing plants of multinational corporations, the labor of the incarcerated fuels the engines of capitalism, enriching corporations while perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. As the global demand for cheap labor drives companies to seek ever-che aper production methods, the plight of incarcerated workers remains largely overlooked, hidden behind prison walls and corporate boardrooms.

This investigation sheds light on the intricate web of America's prison labor supply chain, revealing the systemic issues that perpetuate the exploitation of vulnerable populations. While some argue that prison labor provides valuable job training and opportunities for rehabilitation, the reality is far bleaker. Many incarcerated individuals are subjected to grueling work conditions, denied fair compensation, and deprived of the most basic human rights. Their labor is commodified, their dignity stripped away in the pursuit of profit.

"Bars to Brands" challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the products they consume and the systems that produce them. By tracing the journey of goods from behind bars to store shelves, this investigation prompts critical reflection on the ethical implications of our consumer choices. Can we, in good conscience, continue to support industries that rely on the exploitation of incarcerated labor?

Through powerful storytelling and compelling visuals, "Bars to Brands" amplifies the voices of those directly impacted by prison labor practices. From firsthand accounts of incarcerated individuals to expert analysis from advocates and scholars, this investigation offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues at play. By elevating marginalized perspectives and centering the experiences of those most affected, "Bars to Brands" seeks to ignite meaningful conversations and inspire collective action towards a more just and equitable future.

As viewers delve into the untold story of prison labor, they are invited to challenge prevailing narratives and imagine alternative visions of justice. By exposing the hidden threads that connect America's prisons to the global economy, "Bars to Brands" empowers audiences to demand accountability from corporations, policymakers, and society at large. Together, we can unravel the chains of exploitation and build a world where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness, regardless of their incarceration status.

"Plates and Prisoners: Peek Behind the Curtain of America's Food Industry to Uncover the Startling Reality of Prison Labor."

In the bustling aisles of supermarkets and the bustling kitchens of restaurants, Americans interact daily with the products of their food industry, blissfully unaware of the hidden truth behind their meals. "Plates and Prisoners" invites viewers to embark on a journey behind the curtain of America's food supply chain, where the startling reality of prison labor awaits discovery.

As consumers, we often take for granted the convenience and abundance of our food options, failing to recognize the labor that goes into every bite we take. Yet, unbeknownst to many, a significant portion of America's food production relies on the exploitation of incarcerated individuals, who toil away behind bars for meager wages or sometimes for no compensation at all.

This investigation sheds light on the dark underbelly of the food industry, exposing the systemic injustices that perpetuate the cycle of exploitation and oppression. From harvesting crops under the scorching sun to processing meat in hazardous conditions, incarcerated workers are subjected to grueling labor without adequate protection or recourse.

"Plates and Prisoners" challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the origins of their food, urging them to consider the ethical implications of supporting an industry built on the backs of the marginalized. By peeling back, the layers of secrecy surrounding prison labor, this investigation invites reflection on the values we prioritize as a society and the responsibilities we bear as consumers.

Through compelling storytelling and thought-provoking interviews, "Plates and Prisoners" amplifies the voices of those directly impacted by this exploitative system. From the firsthand accounts of incarcerated individuals to the insights of labor rights advocates and industry experts, this documentary paints a comprehensive picture of the human cost behind cheap and convenient food.

As viewers peer behind the curtain of America's food industry, they are confronted with a choice: to turn a blind eye to injustice or to take a stand for fairness and dignity. "Plates and Prisoners" empowers audiences to demand accountability from corporations and policymakers, urging them to prioritize the rights and well-being of all workers, regardless of their incarceration status.

In a world where profit often takes precedence over people, "Plates and Prisoners" serves as a rallying cry for justice and compassion. By raising awareness of the hidden realities of prison labor in the food industry, this documentary sparks conversations, inspires activism, and paves the way for a more equitable future for all.

"From Incarceration to Incorporation: Follow the Journey of America's Prisoners as They Become Unlikely Contributors to Your Dinner Table."

 In the shadows of society's consciousness lies a narrative seldom acknowledged: the journey of America's incarcerated individuals from confinement to contribution in the food industry. "From Incarceration to Incorporation" offers a gripping exploration of this untold story, inviting viewers to witness the transformation of prisoners into integral players in the nation's culinary landscape.

As the documentary unfolds, audiences are introduced to a cast of characters whose lives intersect at the intersection of incarceration and employment. From prison cells to food production facilities, these individuals navigate a complex web of challenges and opportunities, defying stereotypes and reclaiming their agency in the process.

At the heart of "From Incarceration to Incorporation" is the revelation of how incarcerated workers, often marginalized and overlooked, play a pivotal role in sustaining America's appetite. Through hard labor and perseverance, they contribute to every stage of the food supply chain, from planting and harvesting crops to processing and packaging goods destined for consumers' dinner tables.

But beyond the physical labor lies a deeper narrative of redemption and resilience. Viewers witness firsthand the transformative power of work, as prisoners find purpose and dignity in their roles within the food industry. From acquiring new skills to forging meaningful connections, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that transcends the confines of their incarceration.

As the documentary delves deeper into the complexities of prison labor, it confronts viewers with thought-provoking questions about justice, ethics, and the role of rehabilitation in the criminal justice system. Through intimate interviews and compelling storytelling, "From Incarceration to Incorporation" challenges preconceived notions and sparks conversations about the intersection of punishment and productivity.

Ultimately, "From Incarceration to Incorporation" serves as a call to action for viewers to reexamine their perceptions of incarceration and reintegration. By shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of incarcerated individuals to the food industry, the documentary advocates for greater recognition of their humanity and potential for redemption.

In a world where second chances are often elusive, "From Incarceration to Incorporation" offers a glimpse into a future where individuals are not defined by their past mistakes, but by their capacity for growth and change. Through empathy and understanding, it challenges us to envision a society where everyone has the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

From prison bars to corporate kitchens, the journey of America's prisoners is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of forgiveness. "From Incarceration to Incorporation" invites viewers to join this journey of hope and redemption, inspiring them to embrace the possibility of a brighter future for all".

(Do you think this is the reason behind all the food recalls)?😖🤢🤮

These are my social sites feel free to add me:

(Facebook)   / boricuapebbles  

(TikTok)   / crazyfilterlady  

(Instagram)   / blacckkdiamonds  

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<3 Thank you.

_

Love always,

author: Maria DC Santiago

aka Crazy Filter Lady

#ChainsofInjustice

#PlatestoPrisons

#UnveilingExploitation

#FromBarsToBrands

#HiddenHandsExposed

#IncarcerationIncorporated

#ReclaimingDignity

#JusticeOnTheMenu

#UnravelTheSupplyChain

#TransformingLives

#ImprisonedMatesAbuse

[rauthschild]

The 14th Amendment Negro Slave vs. White Negro Slave.....

The fact of the matter that there are two Presidents: (1) British Territorial United States, Incorporated (2) Vatican Municipal United States, Incorporated, is beside the point.

As "Commander in Chief" --- an office unique to the British Territorial corporation dba "the" United States of America, Incorporated, Trump can remove his "State "of" Georgia" (>British Federal State: Title 5, U.S.C.S. § 1501(2)) RICO Criminal case to Federal Court, he can remove the Civil Rights granted to "Persons" in his employment during any declared "Emergencies" as a condition of that employment. See, e.g., Below Federal Statutes.

As most of these employees are under contract, and they fail to sue for the fraudulent and undisclosed nature of these contracts, they are in the status of an Indentured Servant due to their Tour of Duty Agreement.  If they truly knew that they were being used as cheap mercenaries, maybe more of them would sue? 

As it is, they stay at their posts....in a form of peonage.  

It is truly repugnant, Justice Clarence Thomas.  The lies, the corruption, the elitism, and the hate is thick as a brick and has been since before the Civil War. 

And please note, it was the Democrats who did all of this --- the Fourteenth Amendment "citizenship", the phony courts, all of it.  And Lincoln was a Black British Bastard in the Lord Mayor's pocket the whole time. 

His Emancipation Proclamation liberated the Black British Southern Plantation owners from their legal obligation to provide food, clothing and shelter to their African and Caucasian slaves.  

The 13 Black British Colonies slave owners were the ones who were "emancipated".  Not the people who worked for them.  

In Star Wars, Episode I, AnaKim Skywalker a.k.a. Darth Vader represent the Slave(s) who eventually destroy virtually, i.e., all of the former masters [> those of the Republic] and who in return is destroyed and saved by his seed, Luke, Skywalker, who was mixed with the bloodline of the Republic.

This negative Karma lead to the Civil war [clone Wars episode II, or artificially created people fighting for freedom] to set Caucasian White persons free but instead of freeing the Slaves it enslaved the amalgamated free people by the ratification of the 13th and 14th Amendments, and the Emancipation Proclamation.

The Slave holding Corporate States were defeated and the property> Negro white persons was seized and transferred over to the Federal Corporation United States for Management.

These Caucasian Negroes did not have a citizenship and the Masonically guided United States Representatives did not allow them to be Congressionally Naturalized in accordance with the United States Constitution, Art. 1, Section 8, Clause 4 of the “Original 1787 Constitution” (Also see, Art. 1, Section. 9, Clause 1, esoterically terminating White Negro Slavery by 1807-08), not to be confused with the British Territorial Colonial Federal 14th Amendment Constitution Naturalization of 1868, that is, 81 years later.

Accordingly, the term Emancipation comes from the Latin word amancipatio and literally means, "to transfer or make over property" (See, e.g., Cassell's New Latin Dictionary, 1960, p. 212).

The word Property also means Rights and Slaves do not have rights, however, Preamble Autochthonous “original people” > natural born Citizens who are NOT delivered over to by way of the Federal 14th Amendment adhesion contracts do possess, all Preamble Rights afforded by the “Original 1787 Constitution,” contrary to the 1789 British Territorial United States Constitution and 1790 Vatican Municipal United States Constitution.

I couldn't make this up.

28 U.S. Code § 1443 - Civil rights cases

Any of the following civil actions or criminal prosecutions, commenced in a State court may be removed by the defendant to the district court of the United States for the district and division embracing the place wherein it is pending:

(1) Against any person who is denied or cannot enforce in the courts of such State a right under any law providing for the equal civil rights of citizens of the United States, or of all persons within the jurisdiction thereof;

(2) For any act under color of authority derived from any law providing for equal rights, or for refusing to do any act on the ground that it would be inconsistent with such law.

28 U.S. Code § 1455(b)

Requirements.—

(1) A notice of removal of a criminal prosecution shall be filed not later than 30 days after the arraignment in the State court, or at any time before trial, whichever is earlier, except that for good cause shown the United States district court may enter an order granting the defendant or defendants leave to file the notice at a later time.

28 U.S. Code § 1442 - Federal officers or agencies sued or prosecuted

(a) A civil action or criminal prosecution that is commenced in a State court and that is against or directed to any of the following may be removed by them to the district court of the United States for the district and division embracing the place wherein it is pending:

(1) The United States or any agency thereof or any officer (or any person acting under that officer) of the United States or of any agency thereof, in an official or individual capacity, for or relating to any act under color of such office or on account of any right, title or authority claimed under any Act of Congress for the apprehension or punishment of criminals or the collection of the revenue.

[newyorkprelawland-blog]

States Vote To End Forced Labor

By Alyssa Brundage, Cornell University Class of 2025

November 13, 2022

The foundation and economic development of the United States have deep roots in slavery. Many assume that the passage of the 13th amendment in 1865 ended forced labor. Although the legislation took significant steps towards ending the practice for most, it excluded an important group. According to section one of the amendment, “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” (1) Those convicted of a crime can be forced to work.

This exemption allowed for the creation of the prison industrial complex. This term describes the economic benefit industries can obtain from the exploitation of incarcerated people. These practices remained common from the Jim Crow Era and have perpetuated into contemporary society. Furthermore, companies prefer to use the lowest wages possible. Many discovered the pitiful prison wages and ability to force labor and use this to their advantage.  

Aside from incarcerated individuals facing forced labor, they also face poor working conditions. According to an ACLU report published earlier this year, more than 76% of incarcerated workers said that they must work or face punishment including solitary confinement or loss of visitation rights. More shockingly, this group of workers is not covered by minimum wage laws or overtime protection, cannot unionize, and often face unsafe conditions (2). On average, incarcerated workers' hourly wages are between 13 and 52 cents. But those abysmally low wages are not the final take-home pay, as the government takes up to 80% of those for costs. Because of these policies, 70% of incarcerated workers are unable to afford basic necessities (3). 

Many states and politicians are acknowledging these deplorable labor conditions and are pushing for reform. In 2018, Colorado became the first state to remove the exemption clause that allowed forced prison labor from the state’s constitution (4). Similar initiatives hit the ballot during the 2022 election cycle. Alabama, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont all approved the initiatives (5). Louisiana also voted on the issue, but voters faced a complex problem. During the legislative process, the proposed amendment was drastically altered to the point of convolution. Essentially, voting “yes” supported removing the clause that allows for involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime, but also expanding upon the section to say that prohibiting slavery “does not apply to the otherwise lawful administration of criminal justice” (6). There is vast debate over what this vague wording means. Some believe the ambiguous language could allow for the expansion of forced prison labor. The issues with the proposed change were so worrisome that its author, Rep. Edmond Jordan, urged voters to reject the proposal in hopes that Louisiana could try again in the future (7). Six out of ten voters agreed and decided to reject the proposed amendment (8). 

Forced prison labor has been normalized throughout the United States for hundreds of years. Fortunately, many are realizing that incarcerated people deserve better workplace protections than they currently receive. Although changing the legality of indentured servitude will be a long and challenging path, as Louisiana proves, states will continue to make strides against this issue. Furthermore, this reform is promising for incarcerated workers, as they could potentially see improved workplace conditions in the years to come. 

______________________________________________________________

“13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution:     Abolition of Slavery (1865).” National Archives, 1 Sept. 2021,     https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/13th-amendment.

ACLU. “Captive Labor: Exploitation of     Incarcerated Workers | News & Commentary.” American Civil Liberties     Union, 15 June 2022,     https://www.aclu.org/news/human-rights/captive-labor-exploitation-of-incarcerated-workers. 

Ibid 

“Slavery Is on the Ballot for Voters in 5 US     States.” AP NEWS, 20 Oct. 2022, https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterms-13th-amendment-slavery-4a0341cf82fa33942bda6a5d17ac4348.

Gans, Jared. “Slavery as Punishment for     Crime Rejected by Voters in Four States.” The Hill, 9 Nov. 2022,     https://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/3726915-slavery-as-punishment-for-crime-rejected-by-voters-in-three-states/.

“Louisiana Amendment 7, Remove Involuntary     Servitude as Punishment for a Crime from Constitution Measure (2022).” Ballotpedia,     https://ballotpedia.org/Louisiana_Amendment_7,_Remove_Involuntary_Servitude_as_Punishment_for_a_Crime_from_Constitution_Measure_(2022).     Accessed 12 Nov. 2022. 

Hutchinson, Piper, et al. “Louisiana Voters     Reject Ban on Slavery, Involuntary Servitude; Author Also Opposed It.” Louisiana     Illuminator, 9 Nov. 2022, https://lailluminator.com/2022/11/08/louisiana-voters-reject-ban-on-slavery-involuntary-servitude-author-also-opposed-it/.

“Four     States Voted to Abolish Slavery, but Not Louisiana. Here’s Why.” BBC     News, 10 Nov. 2022. www.bbc.com,     https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-63578133. 

[allamericansbitch]

i know all eyes are on the presidential candidates for this election, and rightfully so, but some very wonderful and important things are happening statewide that should be celebrated and highlighted, so here’s a few:

Florida passed Amendment 2, which will raise minimum wage to $15/hour by 2026

South Dakota, Montana, Arizona and New Jersey all passed an amendment that legalized marijuana 

Utah will now be removing gendered language in the Utah Constitution and will replace it with gender-neutral language

California passed Prop 17, which restores voting rights to previously imprisoned citizens

Delaware elected Sarah McBride, the first ever openly trans state senator

Ritchie Torres and Mondaire Jones are the first ever openly gay black members of congress

Cori Bush is the first ever woman of color to win a seat in Congress in Missouri

Mauree Turner became the first non-binary state lawmaker in America and the first Muslim member of the Oklahoma state house

Oregon has become the first state to decriminalize all drugs (small amounts of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and other drugs will have lesser punishments, similar to traffic tickets, and no jail time.)

Kim Jackson is the first out LGBTQ+ state senator in Georgia

UPDATED WITH MORE GOOD NEWS:

Shevrin D. Jones is Florida’s first opnely LGBTQ+ state senator

Jabari Brisport became New York’s first gay Black member of the house

Arizona flipped blue for the first time in 24 years

Michele Rayner-Goolsby became the first Black LGBTQ woman in the Florida Legislature

Voters in Colorado overwhelmingly rejected Prop 115, a state ballot measure that would have banned abortions after a fetus reaches 22 weeks gestational age. In rejecting the initiative, Colorado remains one of the most progressive states in the country on reproductive rights

Arizona will now send two Democrats to the Senate for the first time since 1951, thanks to the win of ex-astronaut Captain Mark Kelly.

Democrats have flipped the senate seat in Colorado, with the win of former Gov. John Hickenlooper

Mississippi is removing the confederate flag from their symbology

Marie Newman, who has been titled ‘a leader of the pro-choice movement’, will now represent Illinois' 3rd Congressional District in Congress

Nevada became the first state to protect same-sex marriage in it's constitution

Immigrant rights activist and former public defender José Garza won the race for District Attorney of Travis County, Texas

Michigan passed Proposal 20-2, which requires police to have a search warrant to access a person's electronic data and electronic communications.

EVEN MORE UPDATES:

Washington approved Referendum 90, which requires all school districts to provide age appropriate, comprehensive sex ed at all grade levels

Colorado passed the first paid family/ medical leave program

Mississippi passed an ammendment that legalized medical marijuana

Denver overwhelmingly voted to pass Ballot Measure 2J. which lifts the city's more than 30-year-old ban on pit bulls

New Mexico elected all women of color to it’s House delegation

Vermont elected the state’s first openly transgender legislator, Taylor Small

Ilhan Omar, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, and Ayanna Pressley, all won re-election in the House

Nebraska passed a constitutional amendment to the state constitution that closes the loophole of the U.S. Constitution’s 13th Amendment that allowed slavery as a punishment for crimes

Rhode Island passed a measure to rename the state, officially naming it Rhode Island and not The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, due to connections to slavery

Oregon passed measure 109, the first state to legalize psilocybin (mushrooms) for mental heath treatments

Hawai’i elected native Hawaiian Kaiali’i “Kai” Kahele, a Democrat, to the House of Representatives. He is one of 6 Native members of the House who will be sworn in in January

Utah passed legislation that removes language from the state constitution that allows the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as criminal punishments (no more prison labor!)

Multnomah county, where most of Portland sits, just voted for tuition-free preschool for everybody ages 4-5