Expunging Marijuana Convictions: A Call for Justice and Equity
According to the FBI, marijuana-related arrests account for nearly half of all drug arrests in the United States. In 2017 alone, over 659,000 US citizens were charged with marijuana law violations, with 90.8% of these cases being possession-related despite the fact that the majority of US states have legalized medical marijuana. This stark statistic is just one of many that highlight the disproportionate impact of marijuana laws on certain demographic groups.
Disproportionate Impact on Minorities
Research has consistently shown that white individuals are statistically more likely to consume marijuana compared to other racial groups, yet black people and Latinos make up 46.9% of those arrested for marijuana charges, despite constituting only 31.5% of the US population.
Ben and Jerry’s, a prominent ice cream brand known for its social justice initiatives, recently called for the expungement of all marijuana convictions and pardons for those whose offense was simply possession. In a blog post on their website, they emphasized the need for change:
“Even with increased legalization, hundreds of thousands of people are still being arrested for pot. And most of those people are Black.”
The company specifically cited the disproportionate rate of arrest in Black New York City residents, who are 8 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than whites.
A Call for National Change
Addressing the issue on a national level, Ben and Jerry's released a petition calling on Congress to expunge prior marijuana convictions and provide pardons or amnesty to individuals whose only crime was marijuana possession. They highlighted cities like San Francisco and Seattle as examples of local governments already taking action in this area. The petition has already garnered over 20,000 signatures.
“It’s time to take this national.”
The Case for Expungement
Expunging marijuana convictions is not just about correcting past injustices but also about creating a fairer society. Every single person in prison solely for marijuana possession should be set free. This is not only a moral imperative but also a practical measure to reduce the burden of wrongful convictions on the criminal justice system.
Expunging these convictions can help individuals reintegrate into society and access opportunities that are often inaccessible due to their criminal records, such as employment and housing. It also allows for a more equitable distribution of resources and supports economic growth in communities that have been disproportionately affected by harsh drug laws.
Supporting Legalization and Reforms
The push for expungement is part of a broader movement towards legalizing and reforming marijuana policies. Many states have already taken significant steps in this direction, recognizing the need to address the systemic inequities in drug laws. However, there is still much work to be done at the federal level to ensure a more just and equitable marijuana landscape.
By supporting Ben and Jerry's efforts, we can contribute to a shift in public perception and policy that prioritizes justice and equity over criminalization. This is not just about a single product or brand but about a broader movement towards social reform and innovation in public policy.