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Convicts on Fire


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We've all heard about the firefighters who have come from all over to help fight the California wildfires that have been raging for over a month, but there are a large group of firefighters that we haven't heard much about, and they are the main ones fighting the fires.

Prison inmates have been taught firefighting skills and are working in great numbers to contain all of these fires that are breaking out. These low-security inmates are getting obvious confidence and joy from being given a chance to contribute positively to the community.
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6 responses // Convicts on Fire

  • wow this is pretty intense-- the prisoners seem to feel of more value about themselves through this program, which is an amazing thing.
    recommended by  jade_azul16
    saskia
    1 response to this
  • I love Collective Journalism for bringing in a story nobody else has got on the perennial California wildfires.

    Can't wait to see your next piece, Taymar.
    aschneider
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  • In a way, this is good for all involved. The prisoners seem genuinely happy and the fire fighters appreciate the help. I'm wondering what non violent crimes the prisoners are convicted of. I suspect many are drug related. In which case one could make the argument they are prisoners of politics. Other countries became infamous for using political prisoners as labor: Germany, Russia....just a thought. One can imagine the circle; corporate prisons like tough laws, the government likes free labor. Good story thanks!
    _thejournalist_
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