It has been brought to my attention, and I was wondering if this issue has been brought to the table of important issues in Oregon, that inmates in our prisons and work camps have no access to condoms. I could see that there would be those that would say that by supplying condoms, it would be in turn saying that the state is condoning sexual activity between inmates. Specifically male to male inmates is which I am referring to.
I understand that there would be issues with possible contraband violations, such as misuse, etc. I think the hazards of not making them somehow available in our prisons only is exacerbating the problem of transmission of STDs and then, when released, spreading diseases to partners unknowingly waiting for them at the gates,or any future partners. I was wondering if anyone has any opinions on this issue, or the knowledge of how much this could help or hinder our citizens, inside and out?
Sasha Norris
Eugene
A Note From the Publisher

Dear Readers,
The last two years have been some of the hardest in Eugene Weekly’s 43 years. There were moments when keeping the paper alive felt uncertain. And yet, here we are — still publishing, still investigating, still showing up every week.
That’s because of you!
Not just because of financial support (though that matters enormously), but because of the emails, notes, conversations, encouragement and ideas you shared along the way. You reminded us why this paper exists and who it’s for.
Listening to readers has always been at the heart of Eugene Weekly. This year, that meant launching our popular weekly Activist Alert column, after many of you told us there was no single, reliable place to find information about rallies, meetings and ways to get involved. You asked. We responded.
We’ve also continued to deepen the coverage that sets Eugene Weekly apart, including our in-depth reporting on local real estate development through Bricks & Mortar — digging into what’s being built, who’s behind it and how those decisions shape our community.
And, of course, we’ve continued to bring you the stories and features many of you depend on: investigations and local government reporting, arts and culture coverage, sudoku and crossword puzzles, Savage Love, and our extensive community events calendar. We feature award-winning stories by University of Oregon student reporters getting real world journalism experience. All free. In print and online.
None of this happens by accident. It happens because readers step up and say: this matters.
As we head into a new year, please consider supporting Eugene Weekly if you’re able. Every dollar helps keep us digging, questioning, celebrating — and yes, occasionally annoying exactly the right people. We consider that a public service.
Thank you for standing with us!

Publisher
Eugene Weekly
P.S. If you’d like to talk about supporting EW, I’d love to hear from you!
jody@eugeneweekly.com
(541) 484-0519