2020 has certainly been a year for unusual things. Fortunately, one unusual thing occurred last week that was in no way connected to politics, the economy, or a pandemic. On December 24th, in Carson City, over 1,000 balloons were released over Northern Nevada Correctional Center and Warm Springs Correctional Center to wish those inside Merry Christmas and tell them they are loved.
The event was organized not only in honor of the holidays but to send a message of joy and hope to the incarcerated individuals behind bars in Nevada prisons. After the Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) stopped inmate visitations last March at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, friends and families have been trying to find ways to encourage their loved ones and remind them that despite the separation, they are not alone. And, as wisely stated by Winnie the Pooh –“Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon.”
On the heels of a massive COVID outbreak in Nevada prisons, and weeks of lockdown, many Nevada inmates were thrilled to see the rainbow of color that dotted the beautiful Nevada sky on Christmas Eve – even if it was on the news. Most inmates were excited to know the event was taking place, although only a few of them caught a first-hand glimpse of the crowds that had gathered and the balloons as they sailed above.
The event drew the support of more than just friends and family. Lisa Moore of Life Changes, along with several other Life Changes residents, were also in attendance. The Reno organization aids in offering housing, shelter, and support to individuals affected by substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence, and incarceration. The Leafe Community, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting women who have been incarcerated, was also there to show their support. As many prisoner advocates agree, most incarcerated individuals will one day reintegrate into their families and their communities. Helping them to feel connected is paramount to their successful reentry into society.
NDOC did not offer opposition to the event, allowing the balloons to be released on the edge of prison property. Some officers also viewed the event, watching as the crowd sent their well-wishes, via biodegradable balloons, up into the chilly Christmas Eve air. Charisse N. traveled from Las Vegas to be near her loved one incarcerated at Warm Springs, along with several people hailing from Carson, Reno, Fernley, and Fallon. The skies above other Nevada prisons were inundated with balloons as well, with even more areas gearing up to participate in the event next year.
Comment
Comments