👮♂️ Welsh Not Welcome? 😮 At Wales’ largest prison, HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, former inmates reveal a surprising struggle: they’re being told to stop speaking Welsh! 🙅♂️
Some prisoners expected a haven for Welsh speakers, but shared feedback suggests otherwise. 🚫 A study by Cardiff and Liverpool universities uncovered allegations of “neglect” and “hostility” towards the Welsh language, with accounts of officers showing clear disdain for it.
Ieuan, a former inmate, recounted an incident where he was reprimanded for speaking Welsh with his solicitor via videolink. “I was shocked,” he said, adding that the privacy of his meeting was invaded. Another ex-prisoner, Gwilym, noted that staff regularly intervened in Welsh conversations, insisting on English instead.
Dr Robert Jones and Dr Gregory Davies reported that the language was not treated with the same respect as English inside the supposed “flagship” Welsh prison. Documenting several cases like letters delayed or missing when written in Welsh, they highlighted the frustration among inmates. ✉️
While a prison spokesperson claims security reasons sometimes necessitate English communication, they also state a commitment to promoting Welsh-speaking rights. Yet, as former inmate Hefin points out, communication delays are long for Welsh speakers, with letters taking weeks to arrive, if at all.
Critics argue the prison hasn’t lived up to its promise of providing an inclusive space for Welsh speakers. Built to serve the Welsh and reduce the need for relocations to places like Liverpool, some feel it’s missed the mark entirely. 🏢
The prison maintains it takes complaints seriously and welcomes the Welsh language, raising the question: Is the language really being sidelined, or is there more to the story? 🤔
What are your thoughts on language rights in institutions like prisons? Is it essential to maintain cultural identity even behind bars? 💬 Share your views below! ⬇️