Historical Contexts of Drug Policy and Racial Disparities

This chapter examines the historical implications of drug policy in America, focusing on the intertwining of race, socioeconomic status, and the criminal justice system. It critiques the punitive nature of drug laws and highlights the disparities in sentencing, particularly between crack and powder cocaine. The discussion also traces the political influence of past legislation, the rise of movements like Black Lives Matter, and the ongoing societal challenges stemming from these historical contexts.