Inmates on Mississippi’s death row lost access to their personal tablets shortly after a story about their advocacy efforts was published online. The tablets, which allowed inmates to make video calls and send electronic messages, were removed two hours after Mississippi Today published an article marking the first anniversary of the group Humans Remain.
Humans Remain is a nonprofit organization formed by death row inmates and advocate Liz McCann, who runs the website and shares videos on social media. The organization’s activities have included using tablets to communicate and educate the public about their experiences. Advocates say the inmates have not had access to the devices for a month, leaving only communal phones, mail, and in-person visits as contact options.
A Mississippi Department of Corrections spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. McCann described the situation as “a wall of silence” and noted that the inmates are still seeking answers about why their tablet access was revoked and if they will regain it. The move came shortly after Mississippi Today’s story, which included a brief mention of the tablets’ role in their advocacy work.
MDOC officials cited reasons such as the unit’s restricted status, the use of devices for contact, and the publication of the story as justification for the removal. The editorial from the inmates criticized what they called “mushroom censorship” and questioned the validity of the prison’s explanations. Similar restrictions previously affected Lisa Jo Chamberlin, the only woman on Mississippi’s death row, who was also barred from phone use shortly after a story about her was published earlier this year. She has since regained phone privileges.
While prison officials did not clarify the reasons behind the tablet removal or whether any rules were broken, advocates acknowledge that the situation highlights ongoing concerns about communication restrictions for inmates. McCann stated she has been transparent about using tablets for advocacy and communication, emphasizing that her organization has not concealed its efforts. The inmates credited former Parchman superintendent Marc McClure for improvements in their quality of life, including increased movement within the unit. Prison officials visited Unit 17 on Sept. 4 but did not explain the tablet removal or provide details about future access.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
