San Diego, Calif. (Sept. 28, 2024) — A powerful coalition of Labor, Civil Rights, Community, and Elected Leaders came together for a press conference to urge Californians to vote Yes on Proposition 6 – a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to end forced labor in California’s carceral system, enhance public safety by prioritizing rehabilitation, and save taxpayers money.

The “Yes on Proposition 6” coalition wants to raise public awareness and educate voters on the critical need to shift from the current system of forced labor in prisons to one that prioritizes rehabilitation. The proposition encourages incarcerated people to prioritize participation in essential programs that address the underlying issues that led to their incarceration such as Narcotics Anonymous, Criminal and Gang Members Anonymous, and Victim’s Impact Awareness programs. It also allows incarcerated individuals to become more productive members of our communities by accessing education, vocational training, and counseling, which have proven effective in reducing recidivism.

The “Yes on Proposition 6” coalition wants to raise public awareness and educate voters on the critical need to shift from the current system of forced labor in prisons to one that prioritizes rehabilitation. The proposition encourages incarcerated people to prioritize participation in essential programs that address the underlying issues that led to their incarceration such as Narcotics Anonymous, Criminal and Gang Members Anonymous, and Victim’s Impact Awareness programs. It also allows incarcerated individuals to become more productive members of our communities by accessing education, vocational training, and counseling, which have proven effective in reducing recidivism.

According to California Federation of Labor Unions President, Lorena González, “For too long, our correctional system has prioritized forced labor at the expense of true rehabilitation, proposition 6 offers a chance to right this wrong, ensuring that labor within prisons is fair, voluntary, and supports reintegration into society. This measure not only upholds the dignity of all workers and aligns with our fight for worker rights and justice, but California also currently spends $134,000 per year to incarcerate just one person. By focusing on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism, Proposition 6 will save taxpayer money by reducing the costly cycle of re-incarceration.”

The proposition is associated with potential significant cost savings. The current cost of incarceration per individual in California is notably high, and reducing the reincarceration rate through effective rehabilitation would lower these expenses. In addition, Proposition 6 amends the state constitution to reflect California’s principles. The California Constitution reflects our principles as a state, in which slavery of any form should have no place. Proposition 6 will end modern-day slavery by eliminating its final remnants from the California Constitution once and for all. Specifically, the measure would remove language allowing for involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime.

“As a Senator and the Chair of the Senate Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee, I fight to ensure that California continues to be at the forefront of progress," said Senator Catherine Blakespear. "Proposition 6 is a critical step forward in that fight and this measure reflects our values of fairness, dignity, and human rights, and it’s time for California to lead by example once again."

Proposition 6 prioritizes rehabilitation by allowing incarcerated individuals to choose voluntary work programs that accommodate their participation in educational programs like GED and college courses, vocational training, and counseling services like AA and NA. Research shows that access to these programs dramatically reduces recidivism and supports long-term reintegration into the community. This will not only improve public safety but also provide significant cost savings to the state.

Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-80) stated, “I support Proposition 6 because it focuses on creating a fairer and more effective prison system by emphasizing rehabilitation over forced labor. This approach not only helps reduce recidivism by providing individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to reintegrate into society but also strengthens communities and saves taxpayer money. By prioritizing second chances and personal development, Proposition 6 promotes a justice system that is both economically responsible and aligned with the values of rehabilitation and reintegration.”

This measure is nonpartisan and was put on the ballot by both Republicans and Democrats. Voters in seven other states have recently decided on ballot measures to repeal similar language from their state constitutions that allowed for enslavement or servitude. This includes measures that passed in 2022 with 76% support in Alabama, 79% in Tennessee, and 81% in Vermont. It’s time for California voters to continue the nationwide momentum to ban slavery and forced labor in our prisons.

Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-75) declared, "Proposition 6 is not a partisan issue—it's about fairness, justice, and aligning our values with the progress we've seen across the country. States like Alabama and Tennessee have already taken steps to remove slavery and forced labor from their constitutions with overwhelming voter support. California should be no different. This initiative has strong bipartisan momentum, and it’s time we join other states in doing what’s right. Proposition 6 will help us put an end to an outdated practice that no longer reflects who we are as a state, while also promoting rehabilitation and public safety. This is an issue we can all come together on."

Proposition 6 unlocks educational opportunities for incarcerated people. Forced labor within California's prison system often sidelines the educational and rehabilitative needs of incarcerated individuals. Under the current system, many find themselves caught in a frustrating cycle where mandatory work assignments clash with educational programs, delaying or outright denying access to crucial learning opportunities. This not only extends their time in prison but also diminishes their chances for successful reintegration into society. By voting for Proposition 6, you support a system focused on true rehabilitation, allowing individuals to better prepare for a successful reentry into society. This not only aids in personal development but also strengthens our communities by fostering educated and reformed individuals ready to contribute positively.

Carol Kim, Business Manager of the San Diego County Building & Construction Trades Council believes, "Proposition 6 is a win for workers and our communities alike. By focusing on voluntary work programs in our prison system, we’re giving incarcerated individuals the tools they need to succeed upon release—skills they can bring into industries like construction and the trades. This approach not only reduces recidivism but also strengthens our workforce. More importantly, it saves California taxpayers millions in unnecessary incarceration costs, ensuring that funds can be redirected toward strengthening our local economy and building a safer, more inclusive future for all."

Kelly Mayhew, Ph.D., Professor of English, San Diego City College and Federation of Teachers (AFT) 1931 Vice President, maintains that "As educators, we know that access to quality rehabilitation and education programs is key to breaking the cycle of incarceration. Proposition 6 makes this a reality by ending forced labor in our prisons and allowing individuals to participate in voluntary work and educational programs, like GED and vocational training. This shift not only equips people with the skills they need to reintegrate into society but also saves the state significant taxpayer money—money that can be reinvested in our schools and community programs. Proposition 6 is a crucial step toward building a more equitable and effective justice system."

Proposition 6 restores human dignity by ending forced labor—aka modern-day slavery—a violation of human rights. Forced labor serves no rehabilitative purpose. Incarcerated people should have the agency to invest time to pursue rehabilitation instead of being forced to work. Proposition 6 focuses on the moral imperative of allowing voluntary work assignments, emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights and the dignity of labor

April Grayson, Policy Manager for the Sister Warriors Freedom Coalition believes, "The legacy of slavery runs deep in California, from the forced labor of Indigenous people to the exploitation of Black bodies during the Gold Rush. Even today, the remnants of this brutal system persist in our state’s prisons, where forced labor continues to strip incarcerated people of their dignity, agency, and consent. Proposition 6 gives us a chance to finally dissolve the remnants of slavery that still exist in our Constitution. True rehabilitation can only happen when individuals are given the choice to participate in meaningful work, not forced into labor under threat. This is not just about reforming our prisons—it’s about restoring humanity and justice. This is about California being on the right side of history. We must end this practice and embrace a system that supports accountability, true rehabilitation, and healing."

Successful rehabilitation hinges on incarcerated people’s access to vital services. Currently, California prisons prioritize forced labor over educational and rehabilitative programs because our constitution still allows for involuntary servitude. Proposition 6 emphasizes the importance of allowing incarcerated individuals autonomy over their work schedules so they can access rehabilitative programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and substance prevention programs.

According to formerly incarcerated Gloria Cabrera, who is serving as campaign ambassador, forced labor in prison prevented her from accessing crucial rehabilitative programs, such as GED and college courses, substance abuse disorder recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and vocational training programs. These programs play a vital role in helping individuals overcome personal challenges, develop skills, and reduce the likelihood of reoffending after release.

Ms. Cabrera stated, “I began drinking as a preteen at age 11, left my home at 15 years, and landed in jail by the time I was 19 years old. I didn’t know anything about the system and was released, but soon after, I landed in jail again.”

“By the second time I landed in jail at 21 years-old, my attorney pointed out to me the need to register in a substance abuse recovery rehabilitation program to avoid a life of incarceration. Unfortunately, forced labor left little room for me to participate in substance-abuse treatment programs that could have been instrumental in my recovery. These programs, often scheduled during work hours, were inaccessible to me, despite my desire to break free from the cycle of addiction and self-destruction. It took me years to finally engage in these recovery programs. If it weren’t for my attorney who pointed out to me that the root of my problems with the law were not my crimes but my substance abuse, I would’ve been caught in the jail system indefinitely,” Ms. Cabrera concluded. Ms. Cabrera received her GED with honors, is enrolled in college, and works as a paralegal at a law firm.

Hung Nguyen also expressed, “During my incarceration, I was assigned to work in the kitchen. Despite my request to be reassigned to focus on education and self-improvement, my plea was denied even though I had someone willing to take over my position. I found myself at a crossroads, forced to choose between the kitchen assignment and disciplinary consequences.”

Mr. Nguyen continued, “After years of persistence, I finally secured a job that allowed me to participate in educational and self-help programs, which were life changing. Anger management and conflict resolution have played a crucial role in my successful reintegration into society. Proposition 6 will provide individuals with more opportunities for education, vocational training, and personal development programs. With these tools, they can become law-abiding citizens and reduce the chances of reoffending and contributing to safer communities.”

By enabling better access to rehabilitative programs, Proposition 6 is expected to reduce recidivism rates. This not only enhances public safety but also contributes to the stability of communities by helping ensure those coming home from incarceration are able to become productive members of our communities.

CONFIRMED PARTICIPANTS: California Federation of Labor Unions (AFL-CIO) President, Lorena Gonzalez; Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-38); Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-80), Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-78), Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-75); San Diego City Council President, Sean Elo-Rivera (District 9); San Diego County Building Trades Council Business Manager, Carol Kim; American Federation of Teachers (AFT) 1931 VP of Political Action, Dr. Kelly Mayhew; Urban League of San Diego County, President & CEO, Al Abdallah; San Diego Chicano Federation, Director of Engagement & Community Organizing, José Mondragó; and a handful of formerly incarcerated ambassadors.

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