Stillwater inmates to get bottled water
Stillwater inmates to get bottled water KARE11.com
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Prison Inmates Receive Bottled Water Amidst Water Quality Concerns
Introduction
STILLWATER, Minn. — In response to a recent protest at Stillwater Prison, the Department of Corrections (DOC) has taken steps to address concerns about the water quality by providing inmates with bottled drinking water. While the prison’s well water supply is being retested, this temporary solution aims to ensure the well-being of the inmates. This report highlights the ongoing issue of water quality in the prison and emphasizes the need to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for clean water and sanitation.
Water Quality Concerns
- Advocates and former inmates have long raised concerns about the discolored water coming out of faucets inside inmates’ cells, which has a brown or reddish tint at times.
- Inmates have also complained about a metallic taste in the water, leading to the recent protest.
- Despite these complaints, prison officials have dismissed the concerns, stating that water reports indicate it is clean and safe to drink.
Impact on Inmates
- Former inmates have shared their experiences of avoiding drinking the discolored water whenever possible.
- In cases where drinking the water is unavoidable, inmates have resorted to makeshift filtration devices made from torn bed sheets or socks.
- The poor water quality has also affected the cleanliness of inmates’ clothes, with white garments turning a coffee color when washed.
DOC’s Response and Actions
- The DOC maintains that monthly and yearly tests of the water supply meet all safe drinking water standards, despite the discoloration.
- However, in a first-time move, the DOC has ordered additional tests to measure the levels of organic sediment in the water.
- In the meantime, inmates will have access to bottled drinking water, with 51,000 bottles ordered, providing seven bottles per inmate for five days.
- The duration of this provision may be extended based on the progress of the water tests.
Importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- The provision of clean and safe drinking water aligns with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
- By addressing the water quality concerns in Stillwater Prison, the DOC demonstrates its commitment to upholding human rights and protecting the well-being of inmates, in line with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Remaining Challenges
- While the provision of bottled drinking water is a step in the right direction, it is only a temporary solution.
- Inmates still face challenges when it comes to showering, as they are required to use the discolored water, raising concerns about the impact on their skin.
Conclusion
The ongoing issue of water quality in Stillwater Prison highlights the importance of addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 and SDG 16. While the provision of bottled drinking water is a temporary measure, it signifies progress towards ensuring clean and safe water for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. Moving forward, it is crucial for prison officials to take further steps to remediate the water and provide a long-term solution that upholds the rights and well-being of inmates.
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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The article discusses the issue of contaminated water in Stillwater Prison, which relates to SDG 6, specifically the target of ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. It also touches on SDG 16, as it highlights the concerns of inmates and advocates regarding their rights and protections under the US constitution.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
- SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
- SDG 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
The article highlights the need for safe drinking water for inmates in Stillwater Prison, which aligns with SDG 6.1. It also raises concerns about the water quality due to discoloration and metallic taste, which relates to SDG 6.3. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of upholding inmates’ rights and protections under the US constitution, connecting to SDG 16.3.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Water quality testing results
- Availability of safe drinking water for inmates
- Improvement in water color and taste
- Ensuring equal access to justice for inmates
The article mentions that the Department of Corrections has ordered tests for organic sediment levels in the water, indicating a potential indicator for measuring progress towards improving water quality. The provision of bottled drinking water to inmates can be used as an indicator of ensuring access to safe drinking water. The improvement in water color and taste can also be monitored as an indicator of progress. Lastly, the advocacy for inmates’ rights and protections highlights the need to measure equal access to justice within the prison system.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all. | – Water quality testing results – Availability of safe drinking water for inmates – Improvement in water color and taste |
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials. | – Water quality testing results – Improvement in water color and taste |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all. | – Ensuring equal access to justice for inmates |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: kare11.com
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