Advocates for Incarcerated Abused and Deprived (AFIAD)
Bringing awareness, amplifying voices, and advocating for change behind prison walls
About AFIAD
AFIAD was initiated not to forget the victims of crime, but to bring awareness to the ignored victims who became offenders.
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We are facing an epidemic in this country of mental illnesses and addictions. With the closure of mental health institutions nationwide and the short-term nature of substance abuse treatment facilities, prisons have become the default alternative. As a result, incarcerated individuals in these situations do not receive effective psychological, substance abuse, or medical treatment. Instead, they are further victimized by ongoing abuses and serious deprivation.
What AFIAD Does
AFIAD was established to do the following:
Outreach & Advocacy
Researches and compiles contact information for key decision-makers.
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Engages Governors, politicians, commissioners, and media through calls, letters, and emails.
Letter-Writing Campaigns
Builds public awareness through collective action.
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Encourages communities to stand in solidarity with incarcerated individuals.
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Mental Health & Treatment Reform
Advocates for long-term mental health institutions and substance abuse facilities.
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Pushes for funding for independent mental health support within prisons.
Behind every prison wall are human beings deserving of dignity, treatment, and a chance to heal. AFIAD is committed to ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected.
Letter Writing Campaign History
AFIAD began as a Letter Writing Campaign on Facebook, initiated by Leonna Abraham Brandao. The campaign was designed to bring community voices together to stand with incarcerated individuals and demand systemic change.
Although the original Facebook page was locked, AFIAD continues its advocacy efforts through a current Facebook page and a LinkedIn group.