We are in extraordinary times. Amidst protest and the struggle for a fulfillment of the promises of our democracy, there is still an unalienable truth that remains. That those who had the power to create our system, did not create that system equally for all who were to exist in it. In our criminal legal system, the inequities are laid bare. When we observe the actors that constitute the system, it is clear that those with power are disproportionately white, while those who are consistently crushed by that system are black and brown. That system must change, but not one aspect will realign or reform such deeply entrenched structures. However, one good place to start is with the prosecutor. The Criminal Law Practitioner is proud to publish a series of papers written by the Institute for Innovation in Prosecution (IIP) from the John Jay College, that is a remarkable discussion for one avenue for reform. I am honored to have Lucy Lang, the Director of the IIP, and Professor Angela J. Davis from the Washington College of Law to further introduce this issue to you.
I am extremely fortunate to have an incredible staff that has done an immense amount of work over the past few months. Without them or their dedication, this issue, and the success of our organization, would simply not be possible. I would also like to thank Michael Kahn, Michelle Mason, ShanaKay Salmon from the IIP and the authors of these wonderful pieces for the opportunity to publish their work.
I hope that these pieces are not only provocative, but can provide a roadmap for students, academics, and practitioners in pursuit of finding what we all seek. A fulfillment of the promise that we must all stand equal before the law. It is one step, and we must continue taking steps forward together.