Ep 8. Mommas Can Conquer The World

In this episode of Born Behind Bars, entitled "Mommas Can Conquer The World," viewers are given a glimpse into the lives of several incarcerated mothers as they navigate the challenges of raising children from within prison walls.

Through interviews with the mothers themselves, as well as with their family members and prison staff, the episode explores the unique struggles these women face in trying to maintain a bond with their children despite being separated from them by bars and barbed wire.

One of the mothers featured in this episode is Mariah, who is serving time for drug-related offenses. Mariah's daughter, Jazzy, was born while she was in prison, and Mariah has been working hard to maintain her relationship with Jazzy ever since. She speaks candidly about the guilt she feels for not being able to be there for her daughter, and the challenge of trying to be a good mother from behind bars.

Another mother featured in the episode is Monika, who is serving a life sentence for murder. Monika has two children who were born while she was in prison, and has been able to maintain a close relationship with them thanks to the help of her own mother, who has taken on the role of primary caregiver. Monika speaks movingly about the importance of family support in helping incarcerated mothers stay connected to their children.

The episode also explores the work of various non-profit organizations that help incarcerated mothers maintain their bond with their children. One such organization is the Center for Women and Families, which operates a program called "Mommy and Me Behind Bars" that allows incarcerated mothers to spend time with their children in a supervised setting. The program is a lifeline for many of the mothers, who might otherwise go months or even years without seeing their children in person.

Despite the many challenges faced by these mothers, the episode is ultimately uplifting and inspiring, showcasing the strength and resilience of these women as they work to maintain their relationships with their children in the face of enormous obstacles. Through their stories, viewers are given a glimpse into a world that is often overlooked and ignored, but that is full of resilience, love, and hope.