The Racists Roots of The War On Drugs

Long before the first arrest for marijuana or heroin, laws were being written to target communities of color and control entire populations. In this episode, we trace the origins of drug policy in America to expose the truth behind the headlines and the history they left out.
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Many Americans believe drug laws were created to protect public safety and reduce harm. But when we dig into the early records, speeches, and policies, a different story emerges. From the criminalization of opium to the vilification of cannabis, race played a central role in shaping how substances were regulated and who was punished. This episode takes you back to where it all began.

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The consequences of these policies are still felt today. Black and brown communities continue to face disproportionate arrests, sentencing, and barriers to treatment. The system was designed to criminalize rather than care. Understanding the racist roots of drug laws is not just about history. It is about recognizing the injustice that still exists and what must change to move forward.

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