Prisoners' rights have been a significant issue in Black history, as African Americans have disproportionately faced harsh treatment and discrimination within the criminal justice system. The fight for prisoners' rights has been intertwined with the broader civil rights movement and has played a crucial role in advancing racial equality and justice.

One pivotal moment in the struggle for prisoners' rights in Black history was the Attica Prison Uprising of 1971. In September of that year, prisoners at the Attica Correctional Facility in New York staged a rebellion to protest against inhumane conditions, racism, and mistreatment by prison officials. The majority of the prisoners were Black and Latino, and they demanded better living conditions, access to education and rehabilitation programs, and an end to systematic abuse.

The uprising at Attica drew national attention to the issue of prisoners' rights and ignited a broader conversation about the need for reforms within the criminal justice system. While the uprising ended tragically with a violent crackdown by law enforcement that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, it sparked important changes in the treatment of prisoners and led to increased scrutiny of prisons across the country.

Since Attica, activists and advocates, including many within the Black community, have continued to fight for the rights of incarcerated individuals, particularly addressing issues such as overcrowding, solitary confinement, access to healthcare, and opportunities for rehabilitation. Organizations like the NAACP, the ACLU, and the Prisoners' Rights Project have played a key role in advocating for fair treatment and dignity for all prisoners, regardless of their race.

The struggle for prisoners' rights in Black history serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by incarcerated individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. It underscores the importance of addressing systemic inequalities within the criminal justice system and working towards a more just and equitable society for all.