Reply To: Session #1: Key Takeaways

[melvinsen]

– One of the key takeaways I got from the “Mass Incarceration: The Whole Pie 2020” was how rampant our criminal justice system is with drug related enforcement, arrests, and incarcerations. It was shocking to learn that one in five incarcerated people are locked up for a drug offense. This is emblematic of a police state where over-policed communities will find any means necessary to interrogate and harass Black and Latino communities. It was very informative to learn about the myths often associated with mass incarceration, especially how community supervision programs are set up to almost ensure failure through constant surveillance, burdensome requirements and other infractions.
– In the article “Hope is a Discipline: Mariame Kaba on Dismantling the Carceral State,” it was interesting hearing Mariame Kaba talk about social movements and her experience with social advocacy.
– In the article, “How to Give an Elevator Pitch (With Examples),” making a genuine connection was something important I took away. It is important to connect with people on a more intimate level before introducing things you may need or want to ask them. The four steps to an elevator pitch was also a very important reminder on how to confidently convey your interests and desires with other folks.