“The War on Drugs is one policy that has changed my life in profound ways. Although its original intent was to make neighborhoods safer and lessen the prevalence of drugs, it has had far- reaching consequences that have touched every corner of the nation, including the one where I live. This approach has exacerbated mass imprisonment, which has a disproportionate impact on Black communities and young men, as I have seen firsthand throughout my childhood and academic pursuits in criminal justice. Aside from altering police relations in certain areas, it has also made it more difficult for ex-offenders to reintegrate into society. I would fight for a transition from a punishment-based to a public health-centered paradigm if I had the chance to alter this policy. Decriminalizing minor drug crimes, increasing availability of treatment for mental illness and drug addiction, and funding community-based initiatives to combat drug usage would all be part of this plan. Additionally, I would work to revise sentencing guidelines to make it easier to exercise discretion in sentencing nonviolent offenders and to lower statutory minimum sentences.”