Women’s advocate brings message of renewal to prison inmates

The purpose of the “Stories in Construction” event was to promote reflection, empowerment and the strengthening of self-esteem in incarcerated women, highlighting that each one remains the author of her own story and that there is always the possibility of rebuilding her life with purpose and hope.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Office of the Women’s Advocate held an event called “Stories in Construction” earlier this week at the Bayamón Women’s Prison, marking the start of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence.

The purpose of the event was to promote reflection, empowerment and the strengthening of self-esteem in incarcerated women, highlighting that each one remains the author of her own story and that there is always the possibility of rebuilding her life with purpose and hope.

Gender-based violence affects not only women who are free, but also those who are incarcerated,” said Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez, who led the often emotional activity. “It is essential that we work to ensure that all women recognize their value and dignity.”

The event included a keynote address titled “Stories in the Making: Rebuilding My Courage and Hope,” which explored the power of self-reconstruction and finding value in one’s own story. The women’s advocate emphasized that “it is important for each of you to know that your story doesn’t end here. Today you begin to build your new version.”

Participants also had the opportunity to write phrases on cards that represented their “new story,” creating a symbolic mural titled “My Story Continues.” Orange ribbons, the symbol of 16 Days of Activism, were also distributed.

As part of its public policy and through such events, the administration of Gov. Jenniffer González Colón affirms its commitment to supporting all women, including those who are incarcerated. The public policy promoted by the administration seeks to empower and guarantee the dignity of every woman in Puerto Rico.

Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary Francisco Antonio Quiñones Rivera welcomed the women’s advocate “and her team.”

“We appreciate her efforts to raise awareness about our female correctional population and her commitment to the well-being of our incarcerated women,” he said. “We, for our part, will continue to provide incarcerated women with the rehabilitation, recreation, and education necessary to become better human beings.”

“It is vital that we work together to foster an environment where women can find their voice and rebuild their lives,” Piñeiro Vázquez added, noting that the two agencies “will collaborate to continue supporting these initiatives.”

The women’s advocate concluded her message with a reminder to preserve hope.

“Each of you has a story that continues to be written,” she said. “Even when circumstances are difficult, there is always room to rebuild, heal, and believe in yourselves again.”