In the ongoing struggle for justice and liberation, it’s crucial to confront uncomfortable truths and question deeply held beliefs.
One such truth is that our fates are intricately linked and that our liberation is fundamentally connected. This realization should guide our approach to justice and accountability.
Abolitionism, at its core, is not about retribution or satisfying emotional cravings for punishment. It’s a philosophy that seeks to address the root causes of harm and to imagine systems of justice that promote healing, repair, and transformation. Advocating for someone’s imprisonment or mistaking emotional satisfaction for justice runs counter to these principles.
True abolitionism is not mediated by our emotional responses but by a commitment to understanding and addressing systemic issues.
As a survivor of sexual harm, I grapple with these principles daily. I am acutely aware of the profound damage and seriousness of sexual violence. Yet, the harsh reality is that the criminal legal system has consistently failed to reduce instances of sexual assault despite its punitive measures.
Prosecution and punishment have proven ineffective in diminishing the occurrence of sexual violence, underscoring a critical point: we cannot prosecute our way out of harm.
The criminal legal system will never fully “bring to justice” every person who does harm. Its limitations highlight the urgent need to explore alternatives that truly address the root causes of violence.
Take, for instance, the case of Drake Brezina, a 24-year-old second-grade teacher at a rural school, who tragically caused a fatal accident while texting and driving—a behavior we are all guilty of at some point. The urge to punish Drake is driven by a desire to hold him accountable and to prevent future tragedies. However, imprisoning him will not address the underlying issue of reckless driving or significantly decrease road fatalities. In fact, it might be more beneficial to consider alternative approaches.
Imagine if, instead of imprisonment, Drake was given the chance to use his experience as a powerful educational tool. By sharing his story and the consequences of his actions in a formal setting, he could offer valuable insights to new and young drivers. His personal narrative could serve as a compelling reminder of the dangers of distracted driving, potentially saving lives and reducing reckless behavior. This approach aligns more closely with abolitionist principles, focusing on education and transformation rather than retribution.
Our focus should be on honoring those who have suffered and supporting their families while working to prevent future harm. We must strive to keep the deceased’s name alive and ensure that their memory inspires meaningful change. This involves addressing systemic issues and fostering environments where people are held accountable in ways that genuinely contribute to societal healing and safety.
In sum, abolitionism challenges us to think beyond punitive measures and to embrace innovative solutions that promote healing, education, and systemic change. It invites us to envision a world where our collective well-being is prioritized, and where our responses to harm are grounded in a commitment to justice that transcends mere punishment.
Abolition: Yes! 