America Quote by Andrew Young

“If I wanted to develop a scenario to destroy America, I would do what the Republicans are doing. Take the brightest and best young black men off the streets, put them in jail, make them meaner than hell for 8 or 10 years and then turn them lose in a society where there are plenty of guns for them…” quote by Andrew Young — Download Open image

“If I wanted to develop a scenario to destroy America, I would do what the Republicans are doing. Take the brightest and best young black men off the streets, put them in jail, make them meaner than hell for 8 or 10 years and then turn them lose in a society where there are plenty of guns for them to play with.”

Andrew Young

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Criminal Justice Reform, 2019

He argues that mass incarceration of young black men harms society and fuels violence.

In simple terms: Incarcerating bright young black men creates societal harm.

Key Takeaway

Reform policies to reduce incarceration.

Themes

justice racial equity public safety

Mood

critical activist

Type

policy social commentary

When to use this quote

policy reform
community programs
education initiatives

Key Concepts

systemic racism reentry challenges

Questions to Reflect On

What alternatives to incarceration exist?
How can communities support reintegration?

A Different Perspective

Reform faces political resistance.

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