Friend –

The War on Drugs has now lasted 50 years and one week – so let’s be clear on a few facts that bear repeating.

First, President Biden can take action to end this drug war immediately, starting by commuting federal sentences for drug offenses. Tell him to do so now.

Second, the War on Drugs is a racist war on people. Period.

Since Nixon started it in 1971, the government has pumped hundreds of billions of dollars into law enforcement agencies – leading to the over-surveillance and incarceration of millions, disproportionately Black, Latinx, and Indigenous people.

Today, Black people are 3.64 times likelier to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people, despite similar usage rates.

Finally, the drug war has not solved any problems associated with drug use and the majority of Americans are ready for a new approach based on public health – 83% of voters across an otherwise divided political spectrum believe the War on Drugs has failed.

50 years is 50 years too many, ACLU Supporter. Tell the president to take action to end the drug war now.

Thank you,

Udi Ofer
Pronouns: He, him, his
Deputy National Political Director, ACLU