Prisoners' rights have been a significant issue throughout Black history, as Black individuals have historically been disproportionately targeted and incarcerated. One key figure in the fight for prisoners' rights within Black history is George Jackson, an African American activist and author who was incarcerated for a robbery conviction in the 1960s. Jackson became a prominent voice for prison reform and the rights of prisoners, particularly focusing on the inhumane conditions within the prison system and the rampant racism and abuse faced by Black inmates.

Another important moment in Black history related to prisoners' rights is the Attica Prison riot of 1971. The uprising at the Attica Correctional Facility in New York was led by predominantly Black and Puerto Rican inmates protesting against the oppressive conditions, racism, and lack of basic rights within the prison. The riot resulted in a violent confrontation between the inmates and law enforcement, leading to the deaths of several inmates and hostages. The event brought national attention to the need for prison reform and highlighted the systemic issues facing incarcerated individuals, particularly people of color.

In more recent times, organizations such as the Black Lives Matter movement have brought attention to the issues of mass incarceration and the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on Black communities. The movement advocates for the rights of prisoners, including fair treatment, access to education and rehabilitation programs, and an end to the for-profit prison industry that has perpetuated the cycle of mass incarceration.

Overall, the fight for prisoners' rights in Black history has been intertwined with the broader struggle for racial justice and equality, highlighting the need to address systemic racism and inequality within the criminal justice system.