Mass Incarceration

With a population of slightly over 300 million, the United States only makes up 4% of the global population. Nevertheless, our country accounts for a fifth of the total prison population globally. Although there are some glaring issues with the penitentiary system in the United States, we tend to overlook them. It is paradoxical that a country established on the principles of liberty has come to incarcerate such a high number of individuals.

What caused us to neglect this problem for such an extended period of time? Numerous people view miscreants as just the lowest of the low and simply observe as they are essentially eradicated from the world and consider that to be justice. 

Upon re-entering public life, individuals are often met with rejection and disapproval. Former inmates are often unable to acquire employment, shelter, or take advantage of several state benefits. Individuals who have been convicted of a crime may be ineligible to cast a ballot for up to seven years and, in certain circumstances, may be unable to obtain a passport.

Although these individuals lack financial burdens, they are isolated from the rest of the community and eventually end up in jail or on the streets. I recognize that there should be a consequence for committing a crime, yet should we take a hard-line stance against these individuals?

The United States is facing a huge dilemma with its mass incarceration system, with millions of people losing trust in the American dream. Furthermore, those apprehended for drug-related offenses are grouped together with serious lawbreakers.