Washington State Penitentiary, Walla Walla, Washington
April 1 – April 12, 2018

Prisoners begin a hunger strike on Easter Sunday that lasts at least 11 days and involves at least 1,315 prisoners–including prisoners in all six units of the prison’s West Complex. All prisoners in the West Complex who are not “elderly or infirm” participate. Prison officials state that strike is related to food quality.

A “breakfast boat” typical of newly downsized food portions contributing to the strike. (Photo source: Greg Lehman, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin)

Citations:

“Inmates on hunger strike at Washington State Penitentiary”, The Seattle Times, April 3, 2018.

“Washington State Penitentiary hunger strike enters fourth day“, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, April 4, 2018

“Washington State Penitentiary releases official count of inmates on hunger strike”, Union-Bulletin, April 6, 2018.

“Washington State Penitentiary hunger strike continues”, Associated Press, The Seattle Times, April 8, 2018

“Washington State Penitentiary hunger strike continues, numbers dwindling”, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, April 9, 2018.

“Prisoners end hunger strike at Washington State Penitentiary“, The Associated Press and The Seattle Times, April 12, 2018.

Background:

“Food issues run deep at Washington State Penitentiary”, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, April 22, 2018

“Hunger Strike Highlights Long-Simmering Fight Over Prison Food“, NW News Network, April 17, 2018.