Living in Inhumane Conditions: A Desperate Call for Change at Dominguez Unit**

Today, I find myself sitting with an Inmate Coordinator from the FI 6R Program at the Dominguez Unit in Texas, faced with an untenable reality that demands immediate action and systemic reform. The conditions here have reached a breaking point—so dire that they mirror those of third-world environments, subjecting inmates to unspeakable living conditions that no human being should endure.

Urgent Conditions in the FI 6R Program:

- **Leaking Toilets:** Four toilets continuously leak urine onto the floor, creating a hazardous and unsanitary environment.

- **Broken Sinks and Showers:** Constantly running sinks spill water down the walls, and the showers are practically nonfunctional with only one operating—providing only cold water.

- **Mold and Structural Decay:** Mold thrives on the walls, and open ceiling vents invite rainwater into living spaces, necessitating desperate attempts by inmates to use state-issued soap to block floods.

These appalling conditions aren't just uncomfortable; they are dangerous and dehumanizing. Yet, 58 parole-approved men linger up to a year in this environment, unable to leave until they complete the program. Meanwhile, those not yet eligible for parole enjoy significantly better housing conditions with amenities befitting a hotel rather than a correctional facility. This stark disparity raises the critical question: Why are inmates nearing reintegration into society subjected to such horrendous conditions?

Demand for Immediate Action:

It is time to demand accountability and immediate action from those in charge. We appeal directly to Warden Alonzo Hammond and state officials, including the Governor, Texas Department of Criminal Justice directors, health department heads, and parole board members, to witness these unimaginable conditions firsthand.

This is more than a call for intervention; it is an urgent plea to shut down the FI 6R program at Dominguez Unit or radically transform it to ensure humane living conditions. We must prioritize the health and safety of parole-approved inmates and provide them with the resources and support they deserve to foster dignity and successful reintegration into society.

Failure to act not only perpetuates the cruel and unusual punishment of these individuals but may also face legal repercussions for violating their civil rights under unsanitary conditions. We demand justice, accountability, and swift resolution to this egregious situation.

Take Action Now:

- **Contact Warden Alonzo Hammond:** Demand the immediate cessation of the FI 6R program under current conditions.

- **Reach Out to State Officials:** Inform the Governor, legislative representatives, and relevant departmental heads of these violations.

- **Call for Inspection:** Urge an immediate investigation by the Health Department and the Inspector General to address and rectify these conditions.

We cannot allow these inhumane conditions to persist. Stand with us in demanding change and ensuring that basic human rights are upheld in the Texas correctional system. The time for action is now, and together, we can drive meaningful reform to support those who deserve a fair chance at redemption and societal reentry.

The Urgent Need for Reform: 

Addressing Parole Delays and Inhumane Conditions at Texas' Dominguez Unit

The Dominguez Unit in Texas has become a focal point of dire concern, not just for its appalling living conditions but also for the systemic failures that exacerbate the plight of inmates who have completed their programs and await parole. As the state that leads the nation in incarceration numbers—a distinction far from commendable—Texas must urgently address these issues that waste taxpayer dollars and violate basic human rights.

Stuck in Limbo: The Cost of Parole Delays

Despite having completed mandated rehabilitation programs, numerous inmates remain in limbo, trapped behind bars due to bureaucratic delays in the parole process. This inefficiency is not just a personal tragedy for the individuals involved, but also a glaring misuse of taxpayer money. Housing inmates who are ready for reintegration is an unnecessary financial burden that drains state resources better allocated to community services, education, and rehabilitation efforts.

Unjust Incarceration: A Call for Justice

The situation is compounded by the troubling reality that Texas' correctional system holds a disproportionately high number of wrongfully and overly incarcerated individuals. This systemic issue demands immediate attention and reform. The state’s standing as the leader in incarceration rates is a call to action, not something to be proud of. It is imperative that state leaders confront these statistics with urgency and determination, working towards a justice system that prioritizes fairness, rehabilitation, and the efficient processing of parole.

Taking Action: Pathways to Reform

1. **Streamline Parole Processes:** Immediate reforms are needed to expedite parole hearings and releases for those who have completed their programs. Reducing bureaucratic red tape will save taxpayer money and allow individuals to return to society as contributing members.

2. **Review Incarceration Practices:** A comprehensive review of Texas’ incarceration policies must be undertaken, focusing on identifying and addressing wrongful and excessive imprisonments. This includes implementing robust review processes to ensure sentences are fair and just.

3. **Transform Living Conditions:** The inhumane conditions at facilities like the Dominguez Unit must be urgently addressed. Inmates deserve a baseline level of dignity and safety, in alignment with constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment.

4. **Engage Stakeholders:** It is crucial to involve a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and activists, in drafting legislation and policies that address the inefficiencies and injustices in the current system.

Demanding Accountability and Change

As stewards of public resources and justice, lawmakers must rise to the occasion and institute necessary reforms. Each day of inaction prolongs suffering, wastes valuable resources, and erodes trust in our criminal justice system. Texas must not only rectify these immediate issues but also pave the way for a future where justice is delivered fairly, efficiently, and humanely.

Join us in advocating for change. The time for reform is now, and together, we can work towards a system that truly embodies justice and equality for all.