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Ensuring Fairness in our Criminal Justice System

October 19, 2011 at 11:47 AM ET by ONDCP Staff
Summary: 
Director Kerlikowske met with Chicago leaders to discuss drug policy and its impact on the African American community. The discussion focused on preventing drug abuse before it begins, ensuring viable treatment options for those who need it, and expanding alternatives to incarceration like drug courts and drug market interventions.
Loyola goverment conference

Congressman Danny Davis at a roundtable discussion at Loyola University in Chicago. Oct 17, 2011.

The Obama Administration is committed to the fair and equal application of the Nation’s laws.  Laws and policies that treat all Americans equally should be promoted, which will increase public confidence in the criminal justice system.  In recognition of these principles,  Director Kerlikowske met with Chicago community leaders this week to discuss drug policy and its impact on the African American community.  Joined by US Representative Danny Davis, Andrea Zopp of the Chicago Urban League, Vera Davis of the Chicago NAACP,  Bishop Travis Lane Grant, and representatives from the Rainbow Push Coalition, the discussion focused on preventing drug abuse before it begins, ensuring viable treatment options for those who need it, and expanding alternatives to incarceration like drug courts and drug market interventions. 

Last year, the President signed The Fair Sentencing Act, a historic and long-awaited legislation which reduced the disparity in sentencing for crack and cocaine.  As outlined in the National Drug Control Strategy, ONDCPis also working bring more treatment to the incarcerated population and the expand re-entry services, which provide comprehensive housing, outpatient treatment, and job counseling.  Programs like the Drug Free Communities Support Program are also helping support local activities by supporting drug prevention coalitions of community leaders and equipping them with tools, training, and resources.