January 5th, 2010

Rights for Imprisoned People with Psychiatric Disabilities (RIPPD) is a grassroots, direct action organization, united to demand justice and social change, for imprisoned people with psychiatric disabilities.

Our membership is made up of people with psychiatric disabilities who have been in jail or prison and who have suffered in that system. Our membership also includes family members and friends of people with psychiatric disabilities who are and have been imprisoned.

We believe in humane treatment for all regardless of race, class or sexual identity. We want to end the discrimination and dehumanization in the criminal justice system.

We fight the stigma against people with mental illness by demonstrating our courage and empowerment. We are outraged and disgusted by the deplorable treatment by the people controlling the current system.

We confront all those who have the responsibility to make changes by strategizing, protesting, negotiating, collaborating with other groups and by any other creative means necessary.

We will not be ignored! Our voices will be heard!