The women in the prison were serving time for a variety of different crimes ranging from petty theft and prostitution to drug trafficking and murder. One of the things that stuck me in the prison, were the unique relationships between the inmates. The guards rarely went inside the gates, leaving the women to fend for themselves. Having a common third; like a fun physical activity like Zumba, helped break the ice and through time and patience it was possible to establish rapport with several of the wome n in the prison.
She had a few trusted assistants that helped her maintaining order and stability. She had set up her own little shop where the other inmates could buy basic things like eggs, snacks, soft drinks and personal items such as shampoo and sanitary towels. La Reina ruled the prison with a strict and steady hand with the help of a few trusted deputies. Despite her gentle appearance she was a woman who demanded respect and obedience. However she was also known for her generosity. On several occasions she sponsored bread for those in the prison who had nothing.
The hierarchy very much depended on money, gang-relations and ethnicity. The Mayan women were often in the low end of the pecking order.
Children born in the prison are allowed to stay with their mothers until they are 4 years old. In the winter there were 2 children residing in the prison. A 7 month old girl and the 3-year old daughter of 'La Reina'. The children never lacked for anything, neither clothes, food or toys. Maria de Los Angeles was one of the women who took a special interest in me.
She could play the role of a hardcore gangster one minute and then turn on a dime and desperately try to make me take pity on her. Despite her constant cheeky attempts to con me I was particularly fascinated by Maria.
