Prison Chaplain Layoffs
Update
Dear Friends,
This is not a hoax. The DOC is preparing to layoff Prison Chaplains. I met with the SEIU Union Rep for the Chaplains yesterday. This is what I was told. You can check it with Michael Grunko, President Local 509 SEIU, 617-924-8509 x 509 or 1800-632-8079 ext 509, cell 617-669-1945, email mgrunko@509seiu.com.
- The Department of Corrections has proposed to layoff 19 of 32 Chaplains now employed by the department in order to balance the department budget. This does not account for the unfilled position at MCI Norfolk or several Catholic Chaplain positions around the system.
- In accordance with union policy, the initial list is by seniority only. The faith/denomination of the individuals was not considered. In effect, the remaing Chaplains will become non-denominational reiglious service coordinators.
- This is a proposal. Before the list is finalized, the Union will meet with DOC Management to negotiate a final agreement.
- Layoffs will be accomplished by 31 December. Negotiations are expected to begin within the next couple of weeks.
Timing is everything. Please call or write to the Commissioner to let him know that the faith community stands firmly and passionately behind the Prison Chaplains.
Mark Hemenway
The Commissioner’s Address:
Commissioner Harold W. Clarke
50 Maple Street Suite 3
Milford, MA 01757
Phone: 508-422-3330
FAX: 508-422-3385
Email: HWClarke@doc.state.ma.us
Please copy, the Governor, Assemblyman and State Senator.
Here’s a sample letter and talking points:
_______________________________________________________________________
Dear Commissioner,
I’m writing to ask you to reverse Department of Corrections plans to layoff Chaplains in State Correctional Facilities. This is an affront to the faith community of this Commonwealth whose churches and individual members provide thousands of man hours of volunteer programming for your organization. Consider the following:
- The faith communities of this Commonwealth provide almost 1,000 volunteers for DOC programs. Faith-based volunteers account for two thirds of the total volunteer force. Chaplains recruit, train and coordinate this significant resource.
- Faith-based programs have been shown to be the most effective programming in maintaining order and safety within the facility and are the foundation of effective re-entry efforts.
- This would have an immediate negative impact on the ability of the Commonwealth to support the constitutional right of inmates to religious practice.
- This would seem to be a direct violation of the provisions of 103 CMR 471.07 and .08.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my concern. Given the investment the faith community has made in your organization over many years, I think we deserve an explanation of this decision.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
YOUR NAME