Injustice in the Justice System
By Rashad Richey
We want very specific things from our criminal justice system: safe streets, low crime, the correct people in jail and low-level, nonviolent offenders out of jail. It seems a small request, but even before 14-year old Emmett Till was lynched for allegedly saying “bye, baby” to a White woman at a store in Mississippi, our trust in the criminal justice system has been shaky, at best. Till’s open casket funeral displayed not just his mutilated body, but also the hate being bred in America against Black men.
In an effort to appear just, our system put the killers on trial where an all-White jury found them not guilty in less than an hour, despite positive identification as the killers. And, to make Till’s death more egregious, in 2017, the White woman who lied and directly caused the child’s murder, recanted. As yet, no charges have been filed against her. Till’s murder, which allowed fellow citizens to circumvent the system set up to address criminal behavior was not unique in terms of the horrors visited on those targeted for systemic and government protected violence.
Today, 1.9 million more citizens are in jail than in 1972. It’s not just the tangible punishments we need addressed, but also the invisible punishments of felony disenfranchisement, restrictions on voting, occupational adversity, bans on federal assistance, and the elimination of federal financial aid for education due to small marijuana violations. These too are dynamics of daily injustices in our justice system, but we have become numb to their societal impact.
In 2010, Michelle Alexander, author of The New Jim Crow, argued that “the fate of millions of people — indeed the future of the Black community itself — may depend on the willingness of those who care about racial justice to re-examine their basic assumptions about the role of the criminal justice system in our society.” Ignored when published, her work is now celebrated.
After 40 years of neglect and acquiescence in the current system of incarcerating Black, Brown and poor people, our current “jail swells” include more privileged and non-traditional prisoners entering a system set up to warehouse not rehabilitate. The opioid crisis and the rise of white-collar defendants joining the ranks of “inmate” have caused people of power and influence to figure out how to improve the criminal justice system.
Whether the reform is driven by reducing recidivism, a financial cost-benefit analysis, pure altruism, or focused on justice and human rights, change is required. While President Donald Trump’s First Step Act only teases us with hopes of reform, it’s actually those on the political left who are advocating for banning private prisons, pardoning non-violent drug offenders, legalizing marijuana, and increasing accountability courts. Before you wave the progressive victory flag, remember this sobering thought; neither political party has attempted to resolve the invisible effects of the criminal justice system, which begs the question, when will they?
Rashad Richey, Ph.D., is an Emmy-nominated political analyst, radio personality, national news commentator and editor-at-large for rolling out.
Photo credit: truthdig.com
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
