We believe the crisis in our criminal justice system, fueled by the “war on drugs” is a major component of the unfinished business of the civil rights movement. Break the Chains is one of the only national organizations committed to educating and empowering communities of color to reverse the negative effects of punitive drug policies.

Among other activities, Break the Chains has organized major conferences in Los Angeles, Milwaukee, Houston, and New York City that brought people together from diverse backgrounds to explore alternatives to existing drug policies. Our conferences are designed to achieve the following:

1. “Connect the dots” about the various ways that punitive drug policies disproportionately effect communities of color and relate to such issues as mandatory minimum sentencing, HIV and hepatitis C prevention, racial profiling, immigration policy, civic participation, access to appropriate drug treatment services, crime prevention, and family reunification.
2. Provide an opportunity for individuals to share their personal experiences and perspectives about the impact of the “war on drugs” on their lives and communities; facilitate their ability to build relationships and strategic alliances with other individuals and community-based organizations addressing similar local issues.
3. Examine and evaluate alternative drug policies based on science, compassion, health and human rights.
4. Motivate active engagement in drug policy reform efforts and the development of new reform initiatives.