Comparing Systemic Inequality In The 13th And Ava Duvernay

The American criminal justice system has long been plagued by issues of racial injustice and mass incarceration, deeply entrenched within its historical roots. Through literature and film, authors and filmmakers have sought to illuminate these systemic injustices, shedding light on the myriad factors contributing to the pervasive presence of mass incarceration, particularly among marginalized communities. Jesmyn Ward's novel "Sing, Unburied, Sing" and Ava DuVernay's documentary "The 13th" are potent vehicles for exploring these complex issues. In this essay, we will examine how these works intersect and complement each other in their exploration of racial inequality, the legacy of slavery, and the profound impact of mass incarceration on individuals

Ward's novel portrays characters like Jojo and Richie, who embody resilience and resistance in the face of adversity, advocating for justice and dignity. Similarly, "The 13th" underscores the importance of movements like Black Lives Matter in challenging systemic racism and advocating for criminal justice reform. The documentary emphasizes the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and the protection of civil rights within the criminal justice system, calling for meaningful action to address racial bias and police brutality. Both "The 13th" and "Sing, Unburied, Sing" confront the staggering reality of mass incarceration, particularly its disproportionate impact on African Americans. DuVernay's documentary meticulously examines the historical roots and systemic mechanisms driving mass incarceration, framing it as a modern-day form of racial oppression. In Ward's novel, Jojo's father's incarceration serves as a microcosm of the broader issue, reflecting the countless African Americans ensnared within the criminal justice system. The phenomenon of mass incarceration in the United States is multifaceted, with various factors contributing to its proliferation. One of the primary drivers is the implementation of mandatory minimum sentences and truth-in-sentencing laws, which often result in inmates serving disproportionately long prison terms, particularly for non-violent offenses. The "War on Drugs" also played a pivotal role in fueling mass incarceration, as sentencing policies enacted under this campaign led to a significant surge in the incarceration rate for drug offenses. In fact, as of 2021, a staggering 47% of individuals sentenced to federal prison were convicted of drug-related crimes, highlighting the disproportionate impact of punitive drug policies on minority communities. Moreover, the issue of exorbitant