Wali died of cancer six months after he came home even though he had been in remission, in large part because of the break in his medical care. Still gutted thinking about that.

They pointed out that no woman in the free world would choose white underwear (so true!) and how they would take any other color, even brown. I still think about that conversation and am so glad that she's gotten this important perspective out. Co-published with @theguardian.com.

I met Kelsey last year when I visited her facility, and I still remember how she and the other women were talking about the white underwear they were issued, and the problems with it.

An excerpt: "Without easy access to sufficient period supplies, our natural bodily functions can transform previously pristine white underwear into a source of shame and embarrassment. For the incarcerated woman, the experience is very public."

One of my favorite stories of all time!

Most days I still feel like I'm barely keeping my head above water, but I'd be delighted to have you take a listen, commiserate and share your thoughts!

Wali and PJP co-founder @yukarikane.bsky.social sky.social worked together, running San Quentin News' Journalism Guild, and he was one of she and @profpasha.bsky.social's biggest supporters and champions when they first launched the organization.

I was hesitant to post anything because I didn't want it to be about me, but I know he'd appreciate being remembered. His last words to me via text through his uncle was "Hello and keep in touch." I'd love for you to read one of his stories. They were always written from the heart (like this one).

Wali was also a dear friend. Even when he was still inside, he called to check in on me regularly with a cheerful "Hey Lady." He shared our vision and had even bigger ones of his own to start a media conglomerate that told stories exclusively from behind bars.

Who else has a combination of stories like that? 🙂

Sneak peek of the next issue: a story about one man's morning routine, another about the day in the life of a incarcerated biohazard worker, who had to use plastic bags and tape instead of a biohazard suit, and another about how one man stays on top of trendy music to bond with his niece.

Our writers work so hard on their craft to make sure their stories are meaningful and engaging to read. All writers appreciate their readers, but multiply that by 100 and you'll start to get a sense of how much our writers appreciate you.