In the Netflix documentary “13th,” we delve deep into the complex and often uncomfortable relationship between race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. A central question raised is whether the so-called “War on Drugs” was truly intended to be tough on crime, or, tough on people, specifically those belonging to marginalized communities. This examination prompts us to consider whether the outcome of the anti-drug legislation was an unintended byproduct, or rather, a calculated attack on communities of color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before settling as the “War on Drugs,” the campaign was introduced as “War on Crime.” It had a straightforward goal of making America a safer place by putting in efforts to reduce crime rates. However, as the campaign moved to addressing drug-related issues, it began to shift into a more sinister crusade. Rather than targeting the root causes of drug-related offenses, it over-criminalized specific communities and led to disruptions in families and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The anti-drug legislation encompassed policies such as mandatory minimum sentences and a “three-strikes” law. While it may have seemed to hold the potential for addressing the issue, this approach resulted in a significant increase in incarceration rates, with the majority of those affected being people of color, with many having been imprisoned for non-violent drug offenses. This led to families being torn apart and to a cycle of trauma and violence that can be seen to this day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The question of whether these consequences were deliberate or not remains an important topic of debate. While the initial legislature may not have been explicitly designed to target marginalized groups, the process by which these laws were enforced has had lasting, disproportionate effects on minority communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The legacy of the “War of Drugs” continues to affect many communities to this day, with many individuals struggling to get their lives back in order post-prison. Finding housing and employment opportunities is especially difficult with their now criminal record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In conclusion, the lasting effects of the “War on Drugs,” as depicted in “13th,” were definitely tough on people, particularly people of color. While the campaign may have begun with good intentions of improving America and decreasing crime rates, it shifted into a system that negatively affected marginalized groups at a disproportionate rate. The fallout appears to fall short of coincidence and rather falls under the category of deliberate actions and consequences, with its “public enemy” being people of color and marginalized communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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In the Netflix documentary “13th,” we delve deep into the complex and often uncomfortable relationship between race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. A central question raised is whether the so-called “War on Drugs” was truly intended to … Continue reading