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Memorials condemn involuntary sterilization practices

August 16, 2024

The CIW Honor Guard unveils the memorial dedicated to survivors of involuntary sterilizations carried out at California correctional facilities.

After California eugenics laws were repealed in 1979, it was discovered involuntary sterilization practices continued in state correctional facilities. Under Assembly Bill 137, the state recognized its role in these acts and placed memorials at institutions for women where the practices occurred.

Watch the video (story continues below):

These memorials contain the following text:

“From 1909 through 1979, under state eugenics laws, thousands of people who lived in state-run hospitals, homes, and institutions in California were involuntarily sterilized. Those laws were repealed in 1979.

“However, it was later found that forced or coerced sterilizations continued to be performed on people in custody at state prisons or other correctional facilities under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

“This abhorrent and inexcusable practice will never again be tolerated. This memorial is in recognition of the survivors and those who have dedicated themselves to educate others on the history of eugenics and deeply harmful sterilization practices.”

Officials: Memorials help ensure it never happens again

Plaques were placed at:

California Institution for Women
Central California Women’s Facility
and Valley State Prison, formerly Valley State Prison for Women.

Somber ceremonies were held to dedicate the memorials.

“It was crucial for the California Institution for Women (CIW) to host this event, providing an opportunity for healing and closure for the victims and their families,” said Warden Lavelle Parker. “It allowed CIW to take responsibility for the past actions and demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability.”

One speaker, an incarcerated person named Christine, said these plaques are important.

“The memorials installed inside and outside of CIW are a tangible and enduring recognition that harm was caused,” she said.

Parker said by acknowledging the past, it helps ensure these types of violations never happen again.

Video by Christopher Medina, TV Director Specialist
Office of Public and Employee Communications

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