For the past 40 years the war on drugs has resulted in more than 45 million arrests, $1 Trillion dollars in government spending and established America’s role as the world’s largest jailer. Yet for all that, drugs are cheaper and more available than ever. The House I Live In (2013) was filmed in more than 20 states. It captures heart-wrenching stories of those on the front lines – from the dealer to the grieving mother; the narcotics officer to the Senator; the inmate to the Federal judge. It offers a penetrating look that the profound human rights implications of America’s longest war. The film asserts that drug abuse is a matter of public health and investigates the tragic errors caused by framing it as a crime. More importantly, it examines how political and financial corruption has fueled the War on Drugs in America despite the continuing evidence of its moral, economic and practical failure. The War on Drugs has established the largest prison-industrial system in the world, produced untold mistakes in relationships with neighboring countries and has caused untold damage to lives and innocent American families. It is especially destructive to black families.
Come for the film, and stay for the discussion to follow. We hope to have a local law enforcement spokesperson available a discussion of local issues. $6.00-$10.00 suggested donations.