“Asked on the Line” conducted random informal interviews with 18 mainliners and asked how they felt about the protestors coming to San Quentin and about the administration’s decision to cancel the mainline programming. All but one was happy the protestors came, and a couple of men were bothered by the warden’s “modified program.” The one person who didn’t like the protest asked to remain anonymous.
R. Martin
“I thought it was an excellent idea,” said Mike. “I wish they would have talked about how the State of California has been taken hostage by the special interest groups like the Victims Groups.” Mike didn’t think the safety and security of San Quentin was ever at risk, “so we should have been left on normal program.”
Tim said, “It’s about time!” He added, “The administration locking us in didn’t bother me at all. It was for my benefit and I’m willing to pay that price.”
Jimmy Clark
Sane said he liked that the Occupy Movement came and that prisoners were locked in for the day was OK. “It was for a good cause,” he said.
Gary thought it was great that there were people who were willing to stand together for prisoners, but didn’t like being locked in on a holiday.
Alamin said, “The protestors are a voice for the prisoners, but I think it was unnecessary for us to be locked in.”
Carlos Ramirez
Marcus was one of the critical workers that had to report for duty. “I saw all the snipers and could see the Coast Guard out in the water. I felt good that people stood up for our rights.”
Ed thought the protest had a positive message. “They brought these issues out and created public awareness. I wasn’t happy about the lockdown. The prison officials overreacted.”
