Matthew’s story is proof positive that the changes we need to make in the U.S. criminal justice system are not abstract but within our grasp—and a clarion call to the faithful fight for real justice. While many Evangelicals previously emphasized personal piety, many are acknowledging that not only do souls require redemption, but so do societal systems and structures. Yes, we should “visit the prisoner,” but we must also ask ourselves whether or not it is just that they’re there in the first place, or for so long. Addressing centuries-old racial inequality from the pulpit, calls to prayer, protest, and action, many Christians are striving to bring about racial reconciliation personally and to address policies and structural barriers that negatively impact communities of color.
Did you know people of color have experienced not only harsher sentences but also greater rates of arrest and prosecution? And they are more likely to experience use of force under apprehension and while in custody. The causes of this disparate impact are complex and multi-faceted, but when there is an opportunity to help mitigate unjust racial inequalities, our calling is simple. We at Prison Fellowship have been advocating for reforms like proportional sentencing and restoring voting rights that help to address the disproportional impact of the justice system.
Your support of our fight for justice that restores is vital—thank you! We invite you to join us as we continue to seek restorative solutions in this nation’s criminal justice system.
