Once again, another death has been reported at Waupun Correctional Institution, the sixth life lost in a little over a year. For years, we have heard from people incarcerated at the prison that the conditions have been unliveable. Near constant lockdowns, neglect, lack of clean water, and isolation from even visits or phone calls with loved ones have created an environment that is not capable of providing physical and mental health care and has led to a string of deaths of people at the facility. In fact, in June, the former warden at the Waupun Correctional Institution and eight correctional officers were charged after two people incarcerated there died in their care. It's clear that there is a problem inside the facility. The issues continue to be ignored. This is unacceptable and cannot continue.

The lives lost within the walls of Waupun prison are not just statistics or numbers; they are real people with families, dreams, and inherent dignity. The recent deaths last year, neglect, and inhumane treatment of people at this facility are a stain on our society's conscience. We cannot stand idly by while people incarcerated at this facility continue to die. 

If the Department of Corrections cannot or refuses to address the conditions of Waupun Correctional Institution, it must close its doors and transfer people in their care to another facility that is capable of providing a safe environment for those incarcerated there. Demand the Wisconsin Legislature take action to close Waupun. Regardless of the circumstances that lead to a person's involvement in the criminal legal system, they still deserve to have their dignity preserved and their needs met.