Statement: CPR Calls For Restitution And Reinvestment To Be Foundation Of 2021 Marijuana Legalization Program In New York

New York, NY (January 6th, 2021) – Today, Governor Cuomo called for legalization of marijuana in New York State in 2021. Below is a statement from Communities United for Police Reform responding to the Governor’s announcement:

“We’re glad that the Governor has once again prioritized legalization of marijuana in the upcoming legislative session, but if he wants a truly progressive legalization program, restitution to the communities most impacted by marijuana prohibition must be the starting line,” said Kesi Foster, (he/him), spokesperson for CPR. “Repairing the damage done by marijuana prohibition—disproportionately in Black and Latinx communities—is not negotiable. Almost one million New Yorkers have been ensnared in the criminal justice system simply for marijuana. It must stop in 2021 and reinvestments in communities must be the foundation of any plan moving forward.”

About Communities United for Police Reform

Communities United for Police Reform (CPR) is an unprecedented campaign to end discriminatory policing practices in New York, and to build a lasting movement that promotes public safety and reduces reliance on policing. CPR runs coalitions of over 200 local, statewide and national organizations, bringing together a movement of community members, lawyers, researchers and activists to work for change. The partners in this campaign come from all 5 boroughs, from all walks of life and represent many of those most unfairly targeted by the NYPD.