Since its founding, Solitary Watch has maintained contact with thousands of people who live in the darkest corners of the U.S. punishment system, cut off from human contact and out of sight of the public and the press. They have served as our eyes and ears as we report on solitary confinement. 

We have featured hundreds of pieces of their writing in our Voices from Solitary series, and more recently, we have supported the work of dozens of incarcerated journalists. In addition to exposing the isolation and brutality of solitary confinement, this work assures people in solitary that voices are being heard and their experiences understood beyond the walls of their cells.

At the same time, we keep in touch personally through letters, newsletters, and cards—including this year’s holiday card, featured below. We know that for some people, this is their only contact with the outside world.

For one more day, you have the opportunity to donate to Solitary Watch and have your gift  doubled by NewsMatch. If you choose to make your gift recur monthly, every one of your donations will be matched throughout the year. 

From everyone on the Solitary Watch team, thank you for your generosity and caring—and most of all, thank you for listening. 

With gratitude,

Jean Casella
Director