The United States has the largest number of people who are imprisoned than any other nation in the world. There are disproportionate numbers of Black and brown people in prison today, and we must acknowledge the ways in which systemic racism, especially in our carceral system, is still extremely prevalent and must be combated. Presidential candidate Bo Waters plans to tackle these glaring problems by reinvesting our money away from detention centers, and towards services for the people. Additionally, Bo will work to pass policies that require an increase in the level of training police officers need before they are permitted to enforce the law. Police officers must be trained in safe firearm use, anti-racist initiatives, and learn to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations instead of turning immediately to violence. Funding towards jobs and education, as well as an overhaul of the police system can be the start to a country that doesn’t villainize its own citizens, but provides them with ample resources––an America in which all of its citizens have the unalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Main Goals
- End the outdated “war on drugs” by legalizing marijuana.
- Stop the for-profit corruption in our carceral systems, by ending private prison systems and eradicating prison fees.
- Secure personal liberties and right to due process by increasing the funding and availability of public defenders.
- Protecting our people by overhauling the law enforcement system to emphasize safety for all.
