Episode 10: When Criminal Justice Policy Ignores Lived Experiences with Ifetayo Harvey

In this conversation, Jeff Asher and Ifetayo Harvey explore the misconceptions surrounding crime trends, the importance of context in data interpretation, and the stigma associated with drug use. They discuss the need for policymakers to experience the realities of justice-impacted families and the significance of using person-first language. Additionally, Jeff and Ifetayo highlight gaps in data collection within the justice system, particularly regarding health outcomes and the backgrounds of legal professionals.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How crime trends are often misunderstood across various demographics.
• Why context is crucial for accurate data interpretation.
• Learn about the root causes for racial disparities in arrests.
• Are policymakers missing experience in challenges faced by justice-impacted families?
• The perpetuation stigma in our use of language in crime data discussion.
• How person-first language is essential in discussions about drug use.
• Is data collection in the justice system inadequate?
• How health outcomes of incarcerated individuals need more attention.
• Learn how the legal profession often reflects socioeconomic disparities.
• How understanding the backgrounds of legal professionals can inform justice reform.

Guest Bio: Ifetayo Harvey is a writer, advocate, and speaker, and the founder and executive director of the POC Psychedelic Collective. She began her writing career as a monthly contributor to her hometown newspaper, The Post and Courier, and later interned with the Drug Policy Alliance, where she spoke at the International Drug Policy Reform Conference about growing up with an incarcerated parent. Her story has since been featured on National Public Radio, and her work spans articles, book contributions, and public speaking focused on parental incarceration, drug policy, and the war on drugs. Through the POC Psychedelic Collective, Ifetayo has built a platform centering people of color in education and community around psychedelics. Outside of her advocacy work, she is a lifelong musician, photographer, soap maker, and needle arts enthusiast.

Resources:

• Ifetayo Harvey’s website

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