Presidential candidate Tom Steyer revealed his plans for criminal justice if voted as president in this upcoming election. The plan, which focuses on large on issues that have plagued Black and Brown citizens was announced January 23, 2020, with efforts to address systematic racism within the court of law.
“At each significant turning point in my life, when I was introduced to the world of progressive political activism, anti-racist prison abolition struggles, when I myself was on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted List and ended up spending two years in jail and on trial, when I became involved in many international solidarity efforts, intersectional feminist movements, I’ve always been one of many,” Davis said during her induction speech. “My own consciousness has always been enabled by shared endeavors and collective consciousness.”
The Black community in America has not lashed out with retribution, violence or hate. We remain the most abused, but have maintained a commitment to Dr. King’s principle of nonviolence. As a people we are still the most non-harming collective. Throughout the centuries we have been God-fearing and compassionate. But Scripture says, “faith without works is dead.” We must as a collective come together and where necessary, partner with others who have the same concerns and stand up.
Michelle Alexander’s seminal effort, “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness,” (2010) captured the nation’s attention. Continuing media coverage and public discourse beyond prison walls, particularly in the Black community, attested to the book’s wide appeal and Alexander is hailed, like no other, for illuminating the devastating impact of mass incarceration.