By Kimberly Apodaca 

Editor’s note: This was presented as a speech at the Roundhouse at End Mass Incarceration Day during the New Mexico Legislative Session. 

Hello community, my name is Kimberly Apodaca. I am a native New Mexican and a mother of a son who is currently incarcerated in the Department of Corrections, doing a 10-year sentence. 

I stand before you today as a mother, a sister, a relative, a widow, and a friend of many who have experienced our inhumane living conditions behind the walls. Prisons in many regions of our state are overcrowded with prisoners, causing these facilities to have poor sanitary conditions, which can spread disease. Today, in our nation nearly 2 million people are incarcerated, warehoused in cramped spaces that lack fresh air, healthy food, natural light, proper healthcare, and connection to loved ones. 

Aside from the state of these unfortunate and dehumanizing environments, our people also lack rehabilitation. Rehabilitation in prisons not only benefits individuals but also society as a whole by fostering safer communities, reducing costs, and promoting social justice. A shift towards rehabilitation can create a more effective and humane criminal justice system.  

Further, prisons offer little to no effective rehabilitation, therapeutic treatment, paid employment, or educational opportunities. Normalizing prison environments with evidence-based programming, including cognitive behavioral therapy and personal development, will help incarcerated individuals lead successful lives in the community as family members, employees, and community residents. 

Today many ask or give comment, such as: "What do these animals want? They are in prison, not a resort." Or: "They deserve this treatment for what they've done." 

I ask you today, if your child — the one you bore in hours of pain and raised with unconditional love, loving them through every mistake, every wrong decision, and yes, even the crime they have committed — are you without spot or blemish and deserving of proper care and entitled to fair treatment, rightfully deserving of attention, fitting to be treated well and last but not least, justified in your humanity in receiving proper care? 

By Peter Simonson, Executive Director & Leon Howard, Deputy Director 

It is with heavy hearts that we say farewell to a cherished colleague, advocate, and friend, Barron Jones, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on the night of March 22. His unwavering commitment to social justice and to the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) illuminated every corner of our organization. As we mourn his loss, we find solace in celebrating his profound impact on our work and lives. 

Barron's journey with us began in 2018, following a distinguished career as a reporter at the Rio Grande Sun. From the moment he joined our team, Barron's fiery advocacy for equity and justice, particularly within the criminal legal system, set him apart. Barron was among the first leaders of the National ACLU's Smart Justice initiative. He quickly became recognized as a trusted thought leader in criminal justice within National ACLU circles, eventually rising to more prominent leadership positions in our affiliate in New Mexico.  

Despite facing tremendous adversity himself, Barron's indomitable spirit and infectious humor lit up every room he entered. He was humble, hardworking, and dedicated to uplifting those who had experienced the horrors of incarceration or police violence. 

Barron was an advocate's advocate, and his dedication knew no bounds. Whether packing up leftover food at meetings to feed the unsheltered or championing the most downtrodden in our community, Barron's actions spoke volumes about his character. 

He was so much more than just a colleague. Barron’s unique quirks never failed to bring us laughter and joy. From his playful habit of affectionately calling people "goofy" or "bozos" to his signature phrase "Whoa Jack," Barron's presence was synonymous with levity. Who could forget how he walked the halls, delighting us with his impromptu robot noises? 

Barron's legacy extends far beyond the walls of our office. His instrumental role in major legislative victories, such as the passage of the New Mexico Civil Rights Act and limitations on solitary confinement, underscores his unwavering dedication to justice.  His passion for meaningful change is further exemplified by his advocacy in campaigns like "Ban the Box" and his efforts surrounding police Body Worn Cameras. Most recently, his advocacy helped pass the New Mexico Voting Rights Act in 2023, restoring voting rights for 11,000 formerly incarcerated New Mexico residents. 

Yet, Barron's most enduring legacy lies in his profound compassion and moral clarity. He consistently centered the voices and stories of formerly incarcerated individuals in our work, amplifying their experiences with empathy and dignity. Through his actions and his stories, Barron inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

To Barron's family, friends, and partner, we extend our deepest sympathies. Know that you are not alone in your grief. Barron's memory will forever be intertwined with our collective struggle for justice.  

We are profoundly grateful to have known and worked alongside Barron Jones. Let us all honor his memory by redoubling our efforts to create a more humane, just, and equitable New Mexico and emulate his selflessness, his passion, and his unwavering commitment to those most in need. Rest in power, Barron. We will carry your torch with pride.