Chapters 2 & 3 Discussion Thread

[SURJ]

A few questions to ponder or help prompt your thoughts on these two chapters:

1. Compare the “Old Jim Crow” system to the “New Jim Crow” system. What similarities? What differences? Purposes? Methods?

2. What do we feel is a reasonable response to those in possession of drugs currently defined as illegal? To those currently selling drugs that are currently defined as illegal?

3. Alexander writes: “Every system of control depends on the tangible and intangible benefits that are provided to those responsible for the system’s maintenance and administration. This system is no exception,” (p. 72). What are some of the other benefits, besides cash, that this system provides to those who support it? Who benefits from the system
as is, and who is harmed? Would changing the financial incentives be enough to end the system? Why or why not?

[Ben]

1. For me, one of the biggest things I see that maybe hasn't already been mentioned is that people actually recognize that the "Old Jim Crow" exists. But for the New Jim Crow, a lot of people argue that it doesn't and are quick to bring up statistics as evidence that all the problems that people of color face somehow were created by themselves

[Ron]

May I suggest you read No Black Heroes. It's the struggle African American officers face in their departments, the community, and that blue wall of silence that has brought society to what we now face...