A hunger strike to protest what they describe as inhumane living conditions, lack of medical care, and systemic mistreatment within the facility.
The protest, which began earlier this week, has garnered attention from advocacy groups, civil rights organizations, and families of the incarcerated.
According to early reports, at least seven inmates are refusing food as a form of peaceful protest. Sources close to the situation say the number may grow as word of the strike spreads through the prison population.
Reasons Behind the Hunger Strike
The hunger strike appears to be rooted in long-standing grievances, many of which mirror broader issues in the U.S. prison system. The incarcerated individuals have reportedly submitted written statements outlining their demands, which include:
Improved access to adequate medical and mental health care
An end to alleged solitary confinement practices
Better sanitation and food quality
Increased family visitation opportunities
A call for greater transparency and oversight from the Connecticut Department of Correction
Family members and outside supporters claim that individuals at Cheshire Correctional have repeatedly filed grievances with little or no response. Some inmates are believed to be suffering from chronic health issues that they allege are being neglected by prison staff.
Connecticut Department of Correction Responds
In a statement issued Friday, the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC) acknowledged the hunger strike and said they are closely monitoring the situation.
“The Department takes any form of protest seriously. We are committed to ensuring the health and safety of all individuals in our care while also maintaining the security of the institution,” the statement read.
Medical personnel have been assigned to monitor those participating in the hunger strike. However, DOC officials have not yet confirmed whether they plan to meet any of the protesters’ demands or engage in direct negotiations.
Advocacy Groups Speak Out
Prison reform advocates, including the Connecticut branch of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Stop Solitary CT, have condemned the conditions at Cheshire and expressed solidarity with the protesters.
“These individuals are putting their health on the line to shed light on unacceptable conditions,” said a spokesperson for Stop Solitary CT. “No one should have to starve themselves to be treated with basic human dignity.”
Advocacy groups have also highlighted the growing use of hunger strikes across U.S. prisons as a non-violent method of resistance against systemic abuses.
The Bigger Picture: Prison Conditions in Connecticut
Cheshire Correctional Institution is a Level 4 high-security facility that houses over 1,200 inmates. It has faced scrutiny in recent years due to allegations of overcrowding, understaffing, and poor conditions.
The current hunger strike draws renewed attention to Connecticut’s broader correctional policies. While the state has taken steps to improve transparency—such as passing the PROTECT Act to limit solitary confinement—activists argue that more needs to be done.
Public and Legal Pressure Mounts
Legal experts suggest that if the hunger strike continues, it could prompt judicial or legislative intervention, particularly if the health of participants begins to deteriorate. Family members have called on state lawmakers to investigate and are organizing peaceful rallies outside the facility.
As the situation develops, community leaders, reporters, and civil rights attorneys will be closely watching how the Department of Correction responds and whether the hunger strikers’ voices are heard.