California has mobilized over 1,000 incarcerated individuals to fight the raging wildfires on its frontlines. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has integrated 1,015 incarcerated people with state firefighters in a bid to curb the spread of these devastating fires. This unique initiative highlights the state's reliance on incarcerated firefighters, who have become an indispensable part of its emergency response team.
Incarcerated firefighters earn between $5.80 and $10.24 daily for their efforts, with an additional $1 per hour when responding to emergencies. While some may view this as an opportunity for redemption, others see it as a controversial practice due to the stark wage discrepancy compared to professional firefighters.
"If you're willing to run into fire and save lives, they deserve the same amount of pay as others." – Rasheed Stanley-Lockheart
Eddie Herrera Jr, a former incarcerated firefighter, exemplifies the potential for transformation through this program. He has transitioned into a career as a fire apparatus engineer and is set to complete an academy near Mule Creek prison.
"My journey started with believing in myself and believing in growth and redemption," – Eddie Herrera Jr
The Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC), a non-profit organization, plays a significant role in supporting these individuals post-release. The ARC has been actively fundraising for 30 imprisoned youth currently battling fires on the frontlines. Additionally, the Ventura Training Center, an 18-month program in collaboration with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), offers training and job pathways for formerly incarcerated firefighters.
Laquisha Johnson, another former incarcerated firefighter, served in a California fire camp nearly a decade ago. Despite her dedication, she faced limitations regarding her eligibility to work as a firefighter after her release.
"To put it bluntly, it is kind of like you're a slave … But the work was rewarding and I had to just say I'm doing it for the people." – Laquisha Johnson
California has long relied on incarcerated individuals to fight fires, with imprisoned crews sometimes making up as much as 30% of the wildfire force in the state. These firefighters are housed in minimum-security facilities known as fire camps, where they receive training as first responders and provide crucial services during emergencies.
Participants in this program serve state prison sentences while training and working at these fire camps. In September 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law aimed at providing more opportunities for incarcerated firefighters upon release, including the possibility of having their records expunged.
"I look back at it as involuntary servitude," – Rasheed Stanley-Lockheart
Wages for these firefighters were increased in 2019, yet many still debate whether the compensation adequately reflects the risks involved. Over the last week alone, more than 20 incarcerated crews were deployed, dressed in orange uniforms and operating under perilous conditions.
"You can barely breathe and you have to move so fast. And it's like you're inside of an oven. People really don't understand how dangerous it is," – Laquisha Johnson
Despite these challenges, many participants express gratitude for the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and gain skills that could aid their reintegration into society.
"I had gratitude for being able to get out of prison," – Rasheed Stanley-Lockheart
Incarcerated firefighters like Eddie Herrera Jr and Laquisha Johnson illustrate both the promise and complexities of this program. Herrera recalls his determination to change public perception through hard work.
"I was so driven. I told myself, nothing's going to stop me. I'm going to change people's minds just with my work ethic." – Eddie Herrera Jr
For some, these experiences mark a significant personal journey toward growth and redemption.
"Being in a place where you don't really have to worry about your safety, and now you're actually being the one providing that help for others, it was a big step." – Eddie Herrera Jr
California voters recently rejected Proposition 6, a ballot measure that sought to amend the state's constitution to prohibit involuntary servitude for people in prison. This decision underscores ongoing debates around the ethics and future of programs involving incarcerated labor.