The Irony of Legalization and Ralo’s Incarceration
As cannabis legalization gains momentum, the unjust incarceration of individuals, particularly people of color, for weed-related offenses becomes increasingly apparent. One such case is rapper Ralo, who remains imprisoned for a nonviolent marijuana offense. Mission Green, a cannabis clemency activist group, has teamed up with influential figures like Drake, Killer Mike, Deion Sanders, and John Wall to demand President Joe Biden release Ralo from prison.
Clemency Appeal: A United Front
The group’s letter to President Biden highlights the urgent need for clemency for Terrell “Ralo” Davis, who is serving federal time for a nonviolent marijuana offense. The signatories, including musicians, actors, athletes, filmmakers, government officials, advocates, and business leaders, emphasize that evolving views on cannabis make it indefensible to incarcerate citizens based on outdated, overly harsh attitudes.
Ralo’s Ongoing Struggle
Ralo has been incarcerated for almost three years, facing two federal counts of intent to distribute marijuana after authorities discovered 444 pounds of weed on a private plane in 2018. If found guilty, Ralo faces up to eight years in prison. As recreational cannabis use is now legal in 16 states and medically permitted in over 20, including Ralo’s home state of Georgia, many are calling for the release of Ralo and others similarly incarcerated for weed-related offenses.
Racial Disparity in Marijuana Arrests
Despite increasing legalization, Black individuals are four times more likely to be arrested for marijuana than Whites. This glaring racial disparity fuels growing discontent, with celebrities like Killer Mike and T.I. expressing their frustration. They argue that while many are profiting from marijuana’s newfound legitimacy, people like Ralo continue to suffer behind bars.
Celebrity Support and Biden’s Own Words
Drake’s “Lemon Pepper Freestyle” offers support for Ralo, while the group’s letter to President Biden cites his own words from 2019: “I think we should decriminalize marijuana, period,” and “anyone who has a record should be let out of jail, their records expunged, be completely zeroed out.” As the movement for cannabis legalization and criminal justice reform continues to grow, the case of Ralo serves as a stark reminder of the injustices still faced by many.
