Skip to content

Cocaine Quote by Michelle Alexander

“The dramatically different manner in which we, as a nation, responded to the crisis presented by drunk driving and the crisis caused by the emergence of crack cocaine speaks volumes about who we value, and who we view as disposable.” quote by Michelle Alexander
Download Open image
“The dramatically different manner in which we, as a nation, responded to the crisis presented by drunk driving and the crisis caused by the emergence of crack cocaine speaks volumes about who we value, and who we view as disposable.”

Michelle Alexander

About This Quote

Source Book: The New Jim Crow, 2010

Society treats drug crises differently, showing a hierarchy of whose lives are protected versus ignored.

In simple terms: Drug policies reveal societal value judgments.

Key Takeaway

Address inequities in drug law enforcement.

Themes

justice race policy health

Mood

reflective critical

Type

sociopolitical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Legislation reform
  • community outreach
  • public awareness campaigns
  • law enforcement training

Key Concepts

Structural racism public health disparity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why are some drug crises prioritized over others?
  • What steps can reduce the perception of disposability?
A Different Perspective

Changing entrenched attitudes and political will is difficult.

4.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Michelle Alexander

Explore all 381 Michelle Alexander quotes

More Cocaine quotes

Browse all 365 Cocaine quotes