By Manny Lewis
In today’s society, cash bail has become a glaring example of systemic racism and inequality. It is a disgrace that people of color bear the burden of this unjust system, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and injustice. Interestingly, there are biblical parallels that shed light on the problematic nature of the bail system.
The cash bail system operates on the assumption that freedom can be purchased. However, this notion favors only the affluent individuals who can afford to buy their way out.
Numerous studies have consistently shown that people of color, particularly the Black and Hispanic communities, face higher bail amounts for similar offenses compared to privileged white individuals. (I’ve seen this with my own eyes as I’ve participated in Court Watch through one of our nonprofit partners, Freedom Fund. But that’s a long story for another blog.) This disparity perpetuates an unending cycle, denying marginalized individuals their release and negatively impacting their lives and those of their loved ones.
“The disparity created by the cash bail system perpetuates an unending cycle, denying marginalized individuals their release and negatively impacting their lives and those of their loved ones.”
The Bible is full of stories that reflect these patterns. Some depict religious leaders who manipulated religious laws to oppress and further marginalize the vulnerable. Well, surprise, surprise, we have our own modern-day leaders who support the cash bail system and who display traits reminiscent of these ancient figures. By burdening people of color with unfair economic hardships through the law, they keep the cycle of systemic injustice spinning.
From the story of Joseph in the Bible, we can draw parallels to the struggles faced by those ensnared within the cash bail system. Joseph, a righteous man, was falsely accused and lacked the resources to prove his innocence and gain his freedom. Does that sound familiar? This is exactly what happens to many individuals caught in the web of this flawed bail system. They find themselves locked up unjustly, unable to afford the necessary resources to fight their cases and secure their release.
IT’S TIME TO take action. It’s time to move beyond mere complaints and work to dismantle the cash bail system, which perpetuates inequalities and racial biases. Advocating for legal reforms, raising awareness, and providing support to communities affected by this flawed system could be an important part of our faith commitment. It’s time to foster a more just society where money doesn’t determine whether you rot behind bars or get a fair shot at justice.
“Joseph, a righteous man, was falsely accused and lacked the resources to prove his innocence and gain his freedom. Does that sound familiar?”
Cash bail serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted inequality and racial bias that persist in our society. By highlighting the connections between this flawed system and biblical narratives, we shed light on the plight of people of color and ignite a passion for change.
Let us challenge the status quo, dismantle the chains of oppression, and restore fairness and dignity to all individuals, irrespective of their race or how much money they’ve got in their pockets.