Extension of visiting and recreation area at San Martin prison

San Martin, Buenos Aires.

What we are doing

We are working on the participative design of the extension and future improvement of a visiting and recreational area at the Unit 46 of the San Martín prison. This project aims at improving the conditions in which women who are deprived of their liberty receive visits and get access to leisure and recreation moments. Also, we aim at improving the rights of children and adolescents who regularly visit their relatives in prison.  The project involves the participation of women in prison who are studying at the CUSAM, in the design process as well as in the execution of the project, through training related to the construction and improvement of the areas.

Why

Currently, the women who are deprived of their liberty make use of a very small common area for recreational activities as well as for receiving visits.  The space is very small and it is equipped with furniture typical of a dining room, which is not suitable for small children, nor for carrying out training and leisure activities. Given that it is not possible for mothers, aunts and grandmothers to be with their children in their everyday life, education and play time, it is necessary to promote meeting spaces in a pleasant, proper and caring environment.  Moreover, we seek to encourage women to take the space and promoting their participation during the whole process.