Meek Mill pens New York Times op-ed on criminal justice reform
The Philadelphia rapper, out of prison during an appeal, is called for systemic change.
Since his release from prison, Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill has become a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform. On Monday, he made his case for systemic change with an op-ed published in The New York Times.
Meek Mill served five months in prison after Philadelphia judge Genece Brinkley determined he had violated his probation by popping a wheelie in New York City. Mill was released on April 24, 2018 as an appeal continues on his 2007 gun and drugs charges continues. "I got lucky, but because of dysfunctional, discriminatory rules, most don’t," Meek writes.
Meek uses the platform to advocate for "stronger prison rehabilitation programs, updated probation policies... an improved bail system and balanced sentencing structures," as well as pressuring politicians who support the current system, which incarcerates a disproportionate number of blacks and Latinos.
The op-ed also announces a new advocacy group pushing for criminal justice reform called ReformNow. Meek says that the initiative will launch "soon," and sign-up is available for more information.
Read the full op-ed at The New York Times. Meek Mill's new album Championship is out November 30 – hear the singles "Oodles 'O Noodles Babies" and Uptown Vibes."
Thumbnail photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for TIDAL