Woman Prisoner Graduates From U-m
On May 4, 1991 Joyce Dixson becomes the first woman prisoner ever to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Michigan. Joyce was convicted over 15 years ago of murder. However, there is evidence in the case that Joyce acted in self-defense - that the man she killed had abused her and threatened her life. Her trial was blatantly unfair in that the lawyer appointed to Joyce was also the lawyer who had represented the man she allegedly killed. Because of shortcomings in the legal system and despite pleas from many influential community members, Joyce was never granted a new trial. She was given the excessively severe sentence of life in prison.
Joyce had no previous criminal record. She has two children, 21 and 23 years of age, one of whom is now a student at Eastern Michigan University. Joyce holds an Associates Degree from Washtenaw Community College. While at Huron Valley Women's Correctional Facility she was assistant to the minister and chaired the Huron Valley Women's Trust Fund. She is presently a coordinator of "Kids Need Moms," a children's visitation program, and for the last three years has single-handedly run the Florence Crane Women's Correctional Facility's Legal Services (which serves over 300 inmates) as a senior paralegal.
Joyce Dixson's case is typical of that of many women who are in prison for finally striking back at their abuser. Her case is atypical in that, against all odds, she fought for her right to an education and completed a university degree. Only Michigan ernor John Engler has the power to commute Joyce Dixson's sentence. A commutation is the final stage at which an injustice occurring in our legal system can be corrected. Joyce Dixson needs your support.
Letters calling for a commutation of Joyce Dixson's sentence can be sent to: Governor John Engler, Office of the Governor, Lansing, MI 48933. Also you can send letters of support to: Joyce Dixson #145440, 38 Fourth St., Coldwater MI 49036.