500 signatures reached
To: Members of Congress and state legislatures
Tell Congress: End Cash Bail
Nearly half a million people sit in jails across the country each day, despite the fact that they are legally innocent of the crime with which they have been charged.
In effect, the cash bail system criminalizes poverty, as people who are unable to afford bail are detained while they await trial for weeks or even months. Cash bail perpetuates inequities in the justice system that are disproportionately felt by communities of color and those experiencing poverty.
Why is this important?
While cash bail preys upon those in poverty, it simultaneously privileges billionaires and the ultra-wealthy.
When Donald Trump was charged in a sweeping racketeering indictment for alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in the state of Georgia, he spent a little over 20 minutes at the Fulton County jail. A key factor in his release: Trump's ability to afford a $200,000 bond.
It's simple: ability to pay is not why someone should stay in jail pretrial. In cities and states across the country, pretrial system reform has already begun. Now, it's time for Congress and state legislatures to act.
Photo Attribution: SARAH-JI/LOVE & STRUGGLE PHOTOS