Racial disparities in the criminal justice system refer to the disproportionate representation of racial and ethnic minorities at all stages of the criminal justice process, from arrest to sentencing.

African Americans have the highest incarceration rate in the United States, with a rate that is more than five times higher than the rate for White Americans.

Discrimination is the leading cause of racial disparities in incarceration. This includes discrimination by law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, and parole boards.

Mass incarceration has a number of negative consequences, including increased crime rates, higher recidivism rates, and broken families.

There is no single solution to addressing racial disparities in incarceration. A comprehensive approach that includes ending the war on drugs, reforming the criminal justice system, and investing in education and job training is needed.