The Racial Legacy of Mass Incarceration in America

Research shows that mass incarceration has negative effects on families.

This assignment explores the consequences of racism in the criminal justice system and the subsequent mass incarceration of people of color that has increased since the 1990s. After watching the documentary 13th, write an essay answering the following questions:
13th by Ava Duvernay:

1. What historical events/forces have led to mass incarceration today?

2. Describe the role of politics and media in perpetuating the negative stereotypes of people of color.

3. How does the Prison Industrial Complex help maintain high incarceration rates?

4. Describe two ways in which mass incarceration affects American families.

PAPER INSTRUCTIONS

You should use the film and readings from class and cite accordingly. If you want to reference other academic sources in your paper, you may. The purpose of this assignment is to think critically about the history and structure of the US criminal justice system as an important social institution.

This paper should be double-spaced, in 12 point font with 1-inch margins.
Your paper should be at least 1,000 words. Include a separate cover page with your name, course, paper title, and word count.
You must cite your sources (any format is fine).

 

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