Welcome to Bee Sidesshort reflections on justice, hope, and the human spirit This series is a corner of our blog where I gather books, stories, and unexpected moments that linger long after the first glance. Most will tie back to incarceration,...
Melissa Bee
Fact Check Friday: No, Theyâre Not Voting
Undocumented immigrants are not getting Social Security numbers or voting in U.S. elections. But many are paying billions into the systemâand never seeing a return.
The Good, The Bad, The Change: Jeff in Oregon
This series shares reflections directly from people in prison â what gives them hope, what causes harm, and what they believe needs to change. ADD YOUR TWO CENTS Snail mail: Adopt an Inmate*Good Bad Change*PO Box 1543Veneta, OR 97487 Use this form [spacer...
Policy vs. People: Communication Behind Bars
Prison isnât just about punishment â itâs a billion-dollar business. From costly calls and messaging, to canceled visits, connection is treated like a luxury. And families are stuck with the bill.
Civics 101: Due Process
This weekâs Civics 101 post breaks down what Due Process really means, who it protects, and why itâs essential to a fair justice system.
Bee đ Sides: After the Unthinkable
A reflection on what we carry â and what we choose to give.
How to Hug Your Adoptee in May
As we welcome the warmth and renewal of spring, nowâs a great time to check in with your adoptee (or any loved one inside). A letter, card, or even a quick note can make a world of difference. Here are a few conversation starters and observances to inspire your May...
Fact Check Friday: The âLiving Off Taxpayersâ Myth
đ Claim: âPrisoners are just living off taxpayersâthey donât need support.â đ Fact check:FALSE. đŁÂ TRUTH: Many people in prison work full-time jobs â for pennies, or nothing, per hour. Most are also parents, caregivers, and future community members. People in prison...
Policy vs. People: Series Introduction
Welcome to Policy vs. People, a series that cuts through the fog of political soundbites to ask one critical question: Who is this policy hurting? Every law, budget cut, and bureaucratic barrier has a human cost. And too often, the people impactedâespecially those...
SOS: Stamp Out Silence & Help Us Send More Love Inside
If you've ever received a handwritten letter from someone in prison, you already know how powerful it can be. For people inside, mail isn't just a lifeline â it's evidence that someone cares. Stamps are especially costly and limited on the inside, so we buy them on...