Topic Summary

Imagine being locked away in a facility where every aspect of daily life, from the education system to healthcare provisions, is designed with someone else in mind–someone who does not share your gender or your unique needs. This is the harsh reality for female prisoners across the United States, a reality where their specific rights and welfare are often overlooked and undermined. Education in women’s prisons is often underfunded and inadequate, leaving many women without the skills necessary to reintegrate into society. Female inmates frequently lack access to vocational training and higher education opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and recidivism. Healthcare is also a significant concern. Female prisoners often receive substandard medical care, with limited access to gynecological services and mental health support. The scarcity of sanitary products is particularly degrading, forcing women to endure humiliation and health risks. It is also key to note the lack of measures to prevent and address sexual abuse within prisons, leaving many women vulnerable and without recourse.

Despite international standards, much more needs to be done. Current legal structures such as the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules) and the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures for Women Offenders (the Bangkok Rules), do so much, but more can still be done. The future of prison reformation hinges on this committee. Will you take part or take a step back in this mission to help women prisoners around the world? As you consider this question, answer this as well: What steps can be taken to transform the prison system into one that genuinely addresses and supports the specific needs of female prisoners?

Director’s Letter

 Dear Committee Members, 

Welcome to a new and exciting journey with our committee focused on the Status of Women. As we embark on this mission, I want to take a moment to introduce myself and share a bit of my background, my passion for this cause, and what I hope we can achieve together. 

My name is Courtney Taylor, and I am a rising sophomore at Harvard College. I was born in Palatine, Illinois, but at the age of nine, my family and I moved to the charming town of Greer, South Carolina, where I still live to this day. My parents, immigrants from South Africa who moved to the United States in 1998, have instilled in me a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and a love for travel. Thanks to them, I have had the privilege of exploring places like South Africa, New Zealand, Mexico, Wales, England, and numerous states across the U.S. 

When I am not traveling, you can find me on the rugby field, fiercely competing as a proud member of Harvard’s D1 Women’s Rugby Team. This year, we celebrated our victory as national champions – a win that came over our rivals, Dartmouth. I also have the honor of playing for the USA U20 team, where I just competed this past summer in Cardiff, Wales. Off the field, I am a member of the competitive Model UN Team Intercollgiate Model United Nations, part of the Harvard Undergraduate Think Tank (HUTT), and an intern with a Criminal Law Firm located in South Carolina. 

In my downtime, I immerse myself in books, lose myself in writing, and indulge in AMAZING puzzles like Wordle, Connections, and Strands. A Netflix binge now and then doesn’t hurt, either. Along with this, I am also an avid animal lover, sharing my home with seven dogs, two cats, seven chickens, and two beehives. It’s definitely as lively as it sounds. 

Our committee’s task this January is both challenging and rewarding: to advance the rights and welfare of female prisoners. This mission is critical as it addresses the unique and often overlooked struggles faced by incarcerated women. From advocating for better healthcare and mental health services to ensuring educational and vocational opportunities, our work can make a profound impact on their lives and society at large. 

Together, let’s bring our diverse experiences, perspectives, and passions to the table. Let’s challenge the status quo, push for meaningful reforms, and be the voice for those who are too often unheard of. I am excited to chair for all of you, and I am confident that our combined efforts will lead to substantial and lasting change. 

Here’s to a productive and impactful journey ahead! If you would like to get in contact with me or ask any questions, please feel free to reach out.

Best, 

Courtney Taylor

Director, Commission on the Status of Women