Lea DeLaria, one of the stars of Neflix’s hit show “Orange Is the New Black,” wants people to recognize that the issues behind the #MeToo movement affect women in prison just as much as they do women in the workplace. “They’re sexually harassed, they’re raped, they have no one they can go to to talk about it,” DeLaria told Cheddar. “They’re silenced.” The actress joined us for #chedHER, our special day of programming devoted to celebrating women’s accomplishments across several industries. “Orange is the New Black” has helped spur a national dialogue about prison reform and poor conditions for incarcerated women. DeLaria says these issues weren’t part of the national conversation before the show became so popular. “People are aware of these horrifying issues for women in prison [now],” DeLaria said, noting that most people weren’t talking about these issues before the show. Piper Kerman, the woman whose memoir the show is based on, and other “OINTB” actresses are getting involved with the Women’s Prison Association, an advocacy group for women behind bars. Filming is currently underway for the show’s sixth season. For full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/why-lea-delaria-thinks-vice-president-mike-pence-thinks-about-gay-people-too-much).

Share:
More In Culture
'Them': A Digital Platform for the Entire LGBTQ+ Community
Sarah Burke, editor-in-chief of Them, spoke with Cheddar News about how its digital magazine offers a different setting for the LGBTQ+ community from other magazines. "From the very beginning, the intention was to create a platform that had a foundation of inclusivity and intersectionality across the entire LGBTQ+ spectrum," Burke said.
Exploring the Benefits of the Cold Plunge Fad on Social Media
Cold plunges are super hot on social media right now. Experts say they boost mental health, soothe sore muscles, and even promote weight loss.  Cheddar's Ashley Mastronardi visited Kardashian favorite, Remedy Place, to get the skinny on ice baths.
Exploring Getty's Collection Coming to Auction
An auction of artwork and furniture from philanthropists Ann and Gordon Getty is taking place at Christie's Wednesday with online sales set for Thursday. Cheddar News takes a peek at some of the arts and objects from the family's Temple of Wings home in Berkeley, Calif.
Load More