Rehabilitation

CIW celebrates Women’s History Month

A woman with long hair stands behind a decorated lectern to speak to the incarcerated people at California Institution for Women (CIW) for Women's History Month.
Judge Mablean Ephram, star of Divorce Court, visited California Institution for Women during a Women's History Month.

Judge Mablean Ephram, star of Divorce Court, visited California Institution for Women (CIW) in honor of Women’s History Month.

The March 21 event and Judge Ephram’s visit “changed the atmosphere at California Institution for Women,” according to event organizers. “She motivated, inspired and encouraged an audience of over 200 residents and staff. Words can’t express the gratitude we have for her leadership and dedication to a community of people who are often forgotten. She even stayed to sign autographs.”

Acting Warden Lavelle Parker welcomed everyone to the event which also featured arts and crafts from the population.

“In celebrating Women’s History Month, we also acknowledge the systemic inequalities and societal barriers that have impacted your lives. We recognize the importance of providing opportunities for growth, education, and rehabilitation,” Parker said. “Together, we can break down these barriers, working towards a future that is fair, just, and inclusive.”

Closing the event, Chief Executive Officer Jim Elliot paid tribute to his female lineage.

Organizers also thanked BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, of Chino Hills, for donating 200 meals.

Submitted by Lt. William Newborg

Read more rehabilitation stories.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

Related content

Wide angle of gymnasium at CIM for the pickleball tournament.

CIM pickleball tournament promotes rehabilitation

Sports programs in prison offer one more way CDCR works to reduce recidivism through rehabilitative programming, such as a recent…

A CMF incarcerated students graduates and attends the ceremony at Solano Community College.

Incarcerated person graduates at outside community college

When incarcerated person Spencer Doland received his college degrees, he walked alongside students from the community. On May 22, Doland…

A graduate proudly holds his certificate at the CALCTRA graduation ceremony at CSP-Solano.

CALCTRA job certifications, apprenticeships earned at CSP‑Solano

In front of family and friends, more than 100 incarcerated individuals received their job certifications and apprenticeships after completing the…

Incarcerated people explain the impact of the Farm to Corrections and Harvest of the Month programs at California State Prison-Solano. They are sitting in a dining hall at the prison with visitors from partner organizations.

Watch: From farm to tray: CDCR’s Farm to Corrections impact

Nearly six years of collaboration among correctional leaders, local farmers, and community organizations came into focus during the recent stakeholder…