Baghdad Central Prison

I read an article in Sunday's New York Times about the newly renovated Abu Ghraib prison, now called Baghdad Central Prison. Their new amenities listed made it sound better than where I'm sitting: flat screen TV's, barbershop with free access, computer lab and library, sewing workshops, gym, and a playground to play with their kids during visits.

How is it that the country we invaded has better prisons that on our home soil? Before you say, "Well, the Iraqi prison is newly renovated so they had a chance to start over fresh while our prisons have been around for a while", please be reminded that the prison I am currently housed at was taken over and renovated early last year. I arrived here shortly after it opened and hardly anything was ready for us - no way to cook our food while we ourselves were cooking in the heat of the dorms.

When will the U.S. catch up with the other Western countries, or even the developing countries, in their treatment of the incarcerated? I hope I will see a day when the system is used for rehabilitation as much as or more than punishment.


Note: Photos are taken in the "newly renovated' Baghdad Central Prison. See www.prisonphotography.wordpress.com - Baghdad Central Prison: Lilac Paint & Soft Furnishings