Encountering Ivan Kilgore in 2020 through my work at Legal Services for Prisoners with Children was eye-opening. Kilgore’s collaboration with a journalist shed light on prison conditions during the pandemic, sparking controversy. As we worked to protect his safety amid the fallout, the challenges of communicating with incarcerated individuals became clear.
Journalists must understand the risks sources face in prison environments where every action has consequences. Through my ongoing conversations with Kilgore, we’ve developed a unique language to navigate these challenges and protect our discussions from surveillance.
As an incarcerated activist, Kilgore has faced repercussions for speaking out against injustices. Despite his efforts to rehabilitate and give back to society, his disciplinary record hinders his progress. It’s vital for journalists and activists to safeguard the communication channels with incarcerated individuals to ensure their safety.
Telling stories of prison injustices is crucial, but not at the cost of compromising the safety and well-being of those willing to speak out. A deep understanding of the prison system and individual rights is essential for journalists engaging in these challenging conversations.