Independent Lens Season 7 Episode 17 Troop 1500

In Independent Lens season 7 episode 17, titled “Troop 1500,” viewers are introduced to the unique world of Girl Scout Troop 1500, a troop based in Austin, Texas that is made up of young girls whose mothers are all currently incarcerated. This particular episode is part of the series’ broader objective of exploring different social, cultural, and political issues from a perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream media.

The episode follows five girls: Jasmine, Shelby, Jennifer, Krystal, and Laralyn. These girls are all in elementary school and are in Troop 1500 because their mothers are incarcerated in different Texas prisons. Troop 1500 is unique in that it brings together girls who share the same difficult experiences and creates a safe space for them to interact, share, and learn from each other.

Throughout the course of the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the daily lives of these girls and the challenges they face, both at home and at school. We see Jasmine, whose mother is in jail for second-degree murder, struggle with anger and lack of self-confidence. Shelby, whose mother is in jail for drug offenses, struggles with abandonment issues and fears of ending up a drug addict like her mom. Jennifer, whose mother is in jail for murder, struggles with the stigma associated with having a parent in prison.

Despite these challenges, the girls find solace and support in their Girl Scout troop. During their weekend retreats, they bond over activities like rock climbing, horseback riding, and cooking. They also participate in therapy sessions where they learn coping mechanisms and life skills. The troop leaders, Linda and Trish, encourage the girls to talk openly about their experiences and teach them how to process their emotions in a healthy way.

The episode also delves into the larger societal issues at play. The girls and their families come from predominantly low-income households, and the statistics show that children of incarcerated parents are more likely to experience poverty, instability, and future involvement with the criminal justice system. The film highlights the importance of programs like Troop 1500 that provide a support system and give the girls a sense of hope and purpose.

One of the most poignant moments in the episode comes towards the end when the girls visit their mothers in prison. The emotions are raw as the girls try to maintain their composure while hugging their mothers through the plexiglass wall. Watching them struggle to communicate their love and share their experiences is heart-wrenching and makes the viewer appreciate the importance of Troop 1500 even more.

Overall, Independent Lens season 7 episode 17 is a moving and powerful portrayal of a group of young girls who are dealing with incredibly difficult circumstances. It sheds light on the toll that mass incarceration takes not just on the individuals being imprisoned but also on their families and communities. Through the story of Troop 1500, the episode shows that there is hope and that programs like this are crucial for the well-being of children impacted by incarceration.