Advocacy for Prison Reform in Delaware

 

 

Advocacy for Prison Reform in Delaware

Part 1: Bryan Stevenson’s Advocacy

a) Advocacy for a Client

In Just Mercy, Bryan Stevenson illustrates a powerful example of advocacy through his work with Walter McMillian, a wrongfully convicted man on death row. Stevenson dedicated significant time and effort to uncover the truth behind Walter’s case, which was riddled with racial bias and prosecutorial misconduct. By meticulously gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and challenging the validity of the testimonies that led to Walter’s conviction, Stevenson not only fought for Walter’s freedom but also brought attention to the systemic issues within the criminal justice system that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

b) Advocacy for a Community

Stevenson’s advocacy extended beyond individual cases to addressing broader systemic injustices. One notable instance is his work with the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) to address the plight of juvenile offenders sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. He highlighted how children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, were treated as adults in the justice system. Stevenson’s efforts led to significant legal challenges and ultimately contributed to changes in policies that aimed to protect children from harsh sentencing practices, advocating for a more just approach that considers the potential for rehabilitation and the unique circumstances surrounding youth.

Part 2: Letter to the Attorney General

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Date]

The Honorable Kathy Jennings
Attorney General of Delaware
Carvel State Office Building
820 N. French Street
Wilmington, DE 19801

Dear Attorney General Jennings,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you as a concerned citizen of Delaware who is deeply troubled by the current state of our criminal justice system. The disparities evident within our incarceration rates—where African Americans represent approximately 60% of our inmate population despite making up only 22-24% of the overall population—raise serious questions about fairness and justice in our state.

I would like to advocate for significant reforms in two critical areas: Delaware’s Criminal Code and our Bail System.

Reforming Delaware’s Criminal Code

Our current criminal code is outdated and disproportionately affects communities of color. Research has shown that stringent sentencing laws contribute to higher incarceration rates for minor offenses, often targeting marginalized populations. Reforming our criminal code to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, decriminalizing certain non-violent offenses, and implementing restorative justice practices can lead to reduced recidivism and promote social equity.

Reforming Delaware’s Bail System

Moreover, Delaware’s bail system requires immediate attention. The reliance on cash bail disproportionately impacts low-income individuals, often resulting in prolonged pretrial detentions for those unable to afford bail. According to a report by the Vera Institute of Justice, jurisdictions that have implemented bail reforms have seen reductions in jail populations without compromising public safety. Transitioning to a system that assesses flight risk rather than financial resources would not only alleviate overcrowding but also ensure fair treatment for all individuals awaiting trial.

In conclusion, I urge your office to take a stand in favor of these critical reforms. By advocating for changes to our criminal code and implementing a more equitable bail system, we can move towards a criminal justice framework that upholds justice and equity for all Delawareans.

Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter. I look forward to your support in advocating for meaningful change in our state.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Your City or Organization, if applicable]

References

– Stevenson, Bryan. Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption. Spiegel & Grau, 2014.
– Vera Institute of Justice. (2019). The Price of Freedom: Bail in the United States. Retrieved from Vera Institute website. https://www.vera.org/publications/the-price-of-freedom-bail-in-the-united-states