The Hill writes
As someone who personally experienced the devastating consequences of an unjust legal system, I am a testament to the transformative power of redemption. My journey to becoming an advocate underscores the urgent need to pass the EQUAL Act, legislation that aims to eliminate the racist sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine.
Growing up, I found myself in a world plagued by gangs, drugs and violence. As I got older, I succumbed to my environment, was involved in gang activity and began dealing drugs. My path took a dramatic turn when I was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for dealing crack cocaine. The penalty for 1 gram of crack cocaine at that time was the same as 100 grams of powder cocaine — making it a 100-1 ratio. The only difference between these two substances is the baking soda added to cook it; they are the same drug. The war on drugs specifically targeted individuals like me, particularly in communities of color, leading to harsh and unequal punishments that did not fit the crime.
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Justice for all: It’s time to end the discrimination between crack and cocaine sentencing
