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What progress has been made towards tackling systemic racism in the criminal justice system?

Verena Muzzollo

Hey there, fellow internet dwellers! Today, we are going to dive deep into a topic that has been buzzing around for quite a while now: tackling systemic racism in the criminal justice system. It's a big, bold topic, with a lot of layers to it, but let's explore what progress has been made so far.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that systemic racism is real, and it's present in many facets of society, including the criminal justice system. The system is biased against people of color, and this bias manifests in various ways, from over-policing Black and Brown communities to harsher sentencing for minor offenses.

But, there is some good news, folks! We are making strides towards change, and there have been some significant victories in the fight against systemic racism in the criminal justice system. Let's take a look at some of the progress that has been made.

One of the most significant changes that have been made is the legalization of marijuana in several states. This may not seem like a big deal, but it is. The legalization of marijuana has led to the decriminalization of many nonviolent drug crimes, which disproportionately affect people of color. By legalizing marijuana, we can reduce the number of people who are incarcerated unjustly, and this is a step in the right direction.

Another change that has been made is the implementation of police body cameras. This is a crucial step towards accountability, as these cameras capture police interactions with the public, making it easier to prove instances of police brutality and excessive force. While this doesn't directly address systemic racism, it does make it easier to hold law enforcement accountable for their actions.

Courts are also recognizing the need for reform. We have seen a significant decrease in the number of mandatory minimum sentences, which are often much harsher for people of color. This change is essential because it gives judges the power to hand down sentences that are fair and just and not solely determined by the color of someone's skin.

Lastly, activism and advocacy have been critical in raising awareness and prompting change. From the Black Lives Matter movement to the outspoken athletes, activists, and public figures using their platforms to create change, voices are being heard. The demand for systemic reform in the criminal justice system has never been louder, and this is a good thing.

While we still have a long way to go, there is progress being made towards tackling systemic racism in the criminal justice system. With continued awareness, activism, and advocacy, we can create a justice system that treats everyone equally, regardless of their race or gender. Let's keep fighting the good fight, folks!