Community Voices
“I had the pleasure of crossing paths with Alesha two years ago,she has been a tremendous help with breaking down the ever changing laws. Whenever I need a question answered about a new law or change within CDCR she takes her time to go over it and gives it back to me in layman's terms.This simple act has been a God sent to me and my loved one.I truly admire her continued tenacity when it comes to advocating for out loved ones behind the walls.”
Lu Drano
Wife of currently incarcerated lifer
This person has made a big impact in my life in the small amount of time that I've known her. I want to acknowledge her and let her know that however I can, I will pay it forward! It'll never be one and done because her acts of kindness towards me are lifelong droplets of inspiration for me. I admire the advocacy work she does on behalf of all women with incarcerated loved ones. Please support her to help bring her husband home.
Thank you Alesha Monteiro for your loyalty and friendship! You are a true warrior and I'm glad to have you in my life.
Romeo Bacos
Previously incarcerated lifer, recently released from San Quentin
Alesha's advocacy work for transgender individuals has been amazing and she is always willing to go the extra mile when needed. I could not ask for a better person to work with.
Henry Bingham
Partner to a CDCR prison
Alesha is reliable, trustworthy, a great researcher (for the truth) and not only advocated for her family but for the community.
Sharee Keith
Essie sister and wife of an incarcerated lifer
Alesha Monteiro has an undeniable passion for advocacy that is truly condemnable. She is driven with a heart fueled by passion with everything she does. The world needs more people like Alesha, she is a remarkable human..
Cristina Bowker
Wife of an Amazing Firefighter
"Alesha is a powerhouse advocate and one of our member leaders at Essie Justice Group. Alesha spoke eloquently and powerfully as a panelist on our Prisons, Patriarchy, & a Pandemic webinar. Her effective and strategic organizing was featured prominently in our Lives on the Line: Women with Incarcerated Loved Ones & the Impact of COVID-19 report. Alesha is a strategic analytical writer who takes the time to write letters to the editor and reach out to journalists to support or grapple with their reporting. In all, Alesha's dedication to fighting for freedom is only surpassed by the range of skills and talents that she brings to organizing. We are lucky to have such a catalytic advocate as part of the Essie sisterhood."
Titilayo Rasaki
Policy Associate, Essie Justice Group