The issue of racial and social justice has been a hot topic in recent years, and it is no different in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire. As the 2020 election approaches, candidates are being asked to address how they plan to tackle this important issue in their campaigns.
The Current State of Racial and Social Justice in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County, located in southern New Hampshire, is home to a diverse population. According to the U. S.Census Bureau, the county's population is 86.5% white, 4.6% African American, 3.8% Asian, and 3.7% Hispanic or Latino. While the county may not have the same level of racial diversity as other parts of the country, issues of racial and social justice still exist. One of the main concerns in Hillsborough County is the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on communities of color. According to a report by The Sentencing Project, African Americans in New Hampshire are incarcerated at a rate nearly five times higher than white residents. This disparity is even more pronounced in Hillsborough County, where African Americans make up only 4.6% of the population but account for over 10% of the county's prison population. In addition to disparities in the criminal justice system, there are also concerns about access to quality education and healthcare for marginalized communities in Hillsborough County.
These issues have been brought to the forefront by recent protests and movements such as Black Lives Matter.
The Candidates' Plans for Addressing Racial and Social Justice
As candidates gear up for the 2020 election in Hillsborough County, many are being asked to outline their plans for addressing racial and social justice issues. Here is a look at what some of the candidates have proposed:Democratic Candidates
On the Democratic side, there are three candidates vying for the position of County Commissioner in Hillsborough County: Deborah Pignatelli, Michael Cryans, and Terry Clark.Deborah Pignatelli
has made addressing racial and social justice a key part of her campaign. She has proposed implementing implicit bias training for law enforcement officers and working to reduce the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on communities of color. Pignatelli also plans to increase funding for education and healthcare programs that serve marginalized communities.Michael Cryans
has also emphasized the need for criminal justice reform in his campaign.He has proposed implementing a system of restorative justice, which focuses on repairing harm caused by crime rather than punishment. Cryans also plans to work with community organizations to address issues of racial and social justice in Hillsborough County.
Terry Clark
has highlighted the need for diversity and inclusion in county government. He has proposed creating a diversity and inclusion task force to address issues of racial and social justice in Hillsborough County. Clark also plans to work with local organizations to increase access to education and healthcare for marginalized communities.Republican Candidates
On the Republican side, there are two candidates running for County Commissioner: Chris Sununu and Joe Kenney.Chris Sununu
, the incumbent County Commissioner, has not specifically addressed issues of racial and social justice in his campaign.However, he has highlighted his record of working with local law enforcement to address crime in the county.
Joe Kenney
has also not outlined specific plans for addressing racial and social justice in Hillsborough County. However, he has emphasized the need for strong leadership and collaboration with community organizations to address issues facing the county.The Importance of Addressing Racial and Social Justice in Hillsborough County
Regardless of political affiliation, it is clear that addressing issues of racial and social justice is crucial for the well-being of Hillsborough County. Not only is it a matter of fairness and equality, but it also has a direct impact on the county's economy and overall quality of life. By addressing disparities in the criminal justice system, increasing access to education and healthcare, and promoting diversity and inclusion, Hillsborough County can become a more equitable and prosperous community for all its residents.In Conclusion
The 2020 election campaigns in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, are an opportunity for candidates to address the pressing issue of racial and social justice. While each candidate may have different approaches, it is clear that this issue cannot be ignored.As voters, it is important to consider each candidate's plans for addressing these issues and choose leaders who will work towards a more just and inclusive county.
