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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON — Today, in a historic move to advance criminal justice reform, Governor Wes Moore (D-MD) signed executive action pardoning 175,000 Maryland residents with low-level cannabis convictions. The NAACP and the Maryland State Conference of the NAACP joined Governor Moore at the Maryland State House to celebrate this historic move.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson issued the following response:
"The NAACP has long known that the War on Drugs was a war on Black America. As we move away from the regressive policies of the past, it's crucial that our leaders assist in building new futures for those impacted. For decades, communities of color have been torn down by the hands of injustice and imprisoned at disproportionate rates due to discriminatory policies.
Today is a new day. The NAACP is proud to stand alongside the Moore Administration in celebrating this victory for progress. The Governor's brave decision to pardon these 175,000 Americans will provide them with a new-found ability to attain opportunity. We will continue to advocate for, and applaud all policy reforms that repair injustices inflicted on our community. As we celebrate today, we look toward tomorrow, pushing for similar policies across the nation. Together, we will mold a future that shines a light over the darkness of our nation's past"
The Association has long supported cannabis reform and will continue to put our full support behind this cause. We urge governors across the country to take action to not only pardon cannabis related convictions but to decriminalize cannabis in their states.
For more information on the NAACP's criminal justice work, visit our website.
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
The battle for our freedoms is going on right now, and with your help today, we can work together to repair America's democracy. Let's join forces and make a positive change for our country.
