We know that the environment and political information is important, and we expose and teach the women about some of the environmental factors that lead to their incarceration.

Susan Burton’s quote highlights the importance of environmental and political information in understanding the challenges faced by women, particularly those who have been incarcerated. She emphasizes the need to expose and teach women about the environmental factors that contribute to their involvement in the criminal justice system. By providing this education, Burton seeks to empower women to understand how external circumstances—such as socio-economic conditions, systemic inequalities, and lack of support—may have played a role in their incarceration.

Burton’s work, particularly through organizations like A New Way of Life Reentry Project, focuses on supporting formerly incarcerated women by helping them reintegrate into society and overcome the barriers they face. The mention of environmental factors underscores her belief that the circumstances surrounding a woman’s life—such as poverty, abuse, and lack of access to education—can significantly influence her involvement in criminal activity. By teaching women about these factors, Burton aims to provide them with a deeper understanding of the systems that have shaped their experiences.

The focus on teaching women also emphasizes Burton’s commitment to education and empowerment as tools for transformation. In addition to addressing the immediate needs of formerly incarcerated women, such as housing and employment, Burton advocates for a broader societal understanding of how the environment plays a key role in shaping behavior. This education can serve as a foundation for personal growth and healing, while also raising awareness of the need for systemic change in how society treats marginalized groups.

Ultimately, Burton’s quote reflects her commitment to addressing the root causes of incarceration and providing women with the knowledge and tools to break free from the cycle of poverty and criminal justice involvement. By focusing on education about environmental influences, Burton hopes to create lasting change for both the women she works with and society as a whole.