This 2016 New York Times opinion video—a collaboration between the Drug Policy Alliance, illustrator Mary Crabapple and musician Jay-Z— discusses the historical context, consequences, and social impact  of the “War On Drugs”. The video argues that this policy, which originated under President Nixon in the 1970s and has remained in some form since, disproportionately targeted and imprisoned Black and Latino communities. They note how the media and law enforcement labeled drug dealing as a non-white issue, and how the rates of incarceration for Black and Latino people soared as a result. The video points out the lasting effects of the War On Drugs, and how, considering drug use rates have stayed the same even as incarceration rates increased, it is time to rethink governmental policies around drugs.

discussion

Based on this video, what were the ultimate results of the “War on Drugs”? 

Why do you think the creators chose to specifically point out the contrast between the strict policing of Black and Latino communities and the lax policing of white communities in the War On Drugs?

Why do you think the New York Times chose to partner with Jay-Z? Give a few specific reasons you think Jay-Z was (or was not) the right narrator for this project.

This video deems the War On Drugs an “epic fail”. What do you think were the core issues (in terms of equality and of effectiveness) with the “War On Drugs,” and what would you do differently if you could create your own program?