Durango Jail, Phoenix, Arizona
February 13, 2014 (end date unknown)
At least 90 prisoners at the Durango Jail went on hunger strike to protest food quality. The strikers began their hunger strike in solidarity with one began by the women at the Estrella Jail in Phoenix earlier in the week.
Prisoner Matthew Hardy told AZ Central, “My dogs eat better food than what we’re fed here. We’re not asking for great food, just better than we get.” Hardy reported finding rocks and even a clump of hair in his food.
Another prisoner, Prentis Bey, explained his decision to join the hunger strike in solidarity with the women at Estrella Jail: “If a woman does it, I’m gonna do it. That’s what men are supposed to do.”
Although the strike was ongoing as of February 17, it is unclear when it ended.
Also on February 17, families and supporters of immigrant detainees at the Eloy Detention Center began an encampment and hunger strike outside of the ICE office in Phoenix. Their hunger strike occurred in solidarity with detainees on hunger strike at the Eloy Detention Center at the time.
Citations:
“Estrella women on hunger strike over Arpaio’s moldy, sickening food,” Arizona Prison Watch, February 11, 2014.
“Valentine’s Day SURPRISE! Men join Women in Huger strike: Arpaio’s prisoners demand food justice“, Arizona Prison Watch, February 16, 2014.
“Male inmates join food strike at county jails“, AZ Central, February 17, 2014.
“Why Do People in Prison Go on Hunger Strike?“, Bitch Media, February 24, 2014.
“Immigration protesters at Phoenix ICE office vow to stay“, AZ Central, February 26, 2014.
