I would like to support efforts to end the shackling, in Virginia prisons and jails, of pregnant female prisoners before, during and soon after delivery. This is a barbaric practice and only serves to demean the prisoner and her innocent baby. Regardless of the reason the woman has been imprisoned, a birth is a sign of hope and respect for life, at least for the life of the newborn if not the mother as well. Also, shackling can be dangerous for mother and baby, and prevents the bonding which a baby needs to develop normally.

I know there are many well-respected professionals who also support an end to this practice. Thank you for listening.