News

Fair Sentencing Act, Civil Rights Victory

“Today, President Obama signed into law legislation that will begin to close the unjust 100:1 disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine sentencing. This sentencing disparity sent millions of people to years in jail for crack cocaine possession – mainly Blacks and people of color; mainly youth who will and carry with them lifelong criminal records. This sentencing disparity and the climate that went along with it has been a prime factor in the criminalization of our communities.

The producers and distributors – the “powder” group – often got off with slaps on the wrists, probation or light sentences.

This historic legislation is a step in the right direction, a civil rights victory to celebrate. But the legislation only goes so far, reducing the disparity to 18:1, in closing this glaring disparity.

While we commend the Congress and the President for this important action, it’s no time to let up. Those subject to the grossly unfair 100:1 sentencing disparity, should seek appeal to reduce their sentences and seek their release from prison. Advocates must continue to fight for full and complete fairness, a 1:1 sentencing ratio for crack and powder.”

The Rainbow PUSH Coalition is a progressive organization devoted to protecting, defending and expanding civil rights to improve economic and educational opportunity. The organization is headquartered at 930 E. 50th St. in Chicago. To learn more, please visit http://www.rainbowpush.org or call (773) 373-3366. To arrange an interview with Rev. Jackson, please call the numbers listed above.

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