My first Day
By Taylor H.
My first day in Arizona State Prison Complex - ASPC- Perryville was a whirlwind of emotions. Especially after spending a long and very cold night in a cell with 20 others. Perryville complex has a max population of 4,401 inmates and currently houses female offenders. Perryville complex has 4 open units (Lumley, Santa Cruz, San Carlos and Santa Rosa/Piestewa) with custodies ranging from minimum to maximum security and death row as well as close custody offenders and juveniles. As we pull up to Perryville Prison I was surprised to see 2 inmates driving a tractor, which I later understood to be the norm. Inmates do everything including all of the upkeep of the prison.
So This Is Prison
Exhausted we stepped off the bus and were lead to the prisons medical facility, located in the prisons complex. This is where we would spend the day getting all sorts of medical tests. Then we were onto RNA which at Perryville Prison is the maximum security yard Lumley. This is where you'll be tested and they will determine what your custody level will be and what yard you'll ultimately be sent to. It's also where you'll spend for the next three or more weeks. This is where the reality of my situation hit me like a ton of bricks. stark walls felt suffocating, and the distant sounds of clanging metal and muffled voices echoed in the air. I was filled with a mix of fear and uncertainty, wondering what the days ahead would hold.
After processing, I was led to my cell—a small, cramped space with a narrow window that let in just a sliver of light. The smell of stale air and disinfectant lingered, a constant reminder of the place I now called home. I took a moment to collect myself, trying to push aside the anxiety that threatened to overwhelm me.
As I settled in, I noticed the other inmates around me. Some were quietly keeping to themselves, while others exchanged stories and laughter. It was a strange mix of camaraderie and isolation, and I felt like an outsider trying to find my place in this new world.
Throughout the day, I attended orientation, learning the rules and routines that governed life behind bars. I felt a sense of dread as I realized how much my freedom had been stripped away. The guards were stern, their eyes watching every move, and I knew I had to tread carefully.
By the time evening rolled around, I was exhausted—physically and emotionally. As I lay on the thin mattress, staring at the ceiling, I couldn't help but reflect on the choices that had led me here. My first day may have been just a glimpse into prison life, but it was enough to leave a lasting impression.
``` My first day on the yard
Loud music played all throughout, people walked the track.
My first day on the yard was a mix of anticipation and anxiety. I stepped out into the open space, the sun beating down on me, and took a deep breath. The atmosphere was charged, filled with the sounds of laughter, shouts, and the occasional clatter of a basketball hitting the pavement. I couldn't shake the feeling that everyone was watching me, sizing me up, and I felt a knot tightening in my stomach.
As I looked around, I noticed groups of guys huddled together, some playing cards, others engaged in heated discussions. A few were shooting hoops, their movements fluid and confident. I knew I had to find my place in this new environment, but where to start?
First Impressions
The Court: The basketball court was the heart of the yard. It was where friendships were forged and rivalries ignited. I watched as players showcased their skills, and I felt a pull to join them.
The Groups: Each group had its own vibe. Some were chill, others were intense. I could tell that fitting in would take some effort, and I needed to be careful about who I approached. It felt like high school. Different groups talking amongst themselves
The Vibe: There was an underlying tension, a sense of unspoken rules. I could feel the weight of expectations hanging in the air, and I knew I had to navigate this carefully.
Making Connections
After a few minutes of observing, I decided to approach a small group playing cards. They looked like they were having a good time, and I figured it was as good a place as any to start. I introduced myself, trying to sound casual, but my heart raced.
To my surprise, they welcomed me in. I realized I already knew a large group of these people from my time in jail. We started chatting, and I felt the tension begin to ease. I learned about their favorite games, their backgrounds, and what brought them to the yard. Laughter flowed easily, and for the first time that day, I felt a sense of belonging.
Reflecting on the Day
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the yard, I realized that my first day had been a success. I had made some connections, learned the lay of the land, and even found a bit of confidence. I knew there would be challenges ahead, but for now, I was ready to embrace this new chapter.