Racial Justice in the Legal System

SOURCE www.npr.org
California rap artist Ronnie Louvier's 2009 murder conviction may be overturned under the Racial Justice Act due to the use of his rap lyrics as evidence in the case.

Key Points

  • Rap and hip-hop music face different standards in the legal system
  • Efforts by Howard University Law School's Criminal Justice Clinic to support Louvier's case
  • Push for legislation to decriminalize hip-hop and rap

Pros

  • Potential for overturning a conviction based on unfair use of rap lyrics in court
  • Efforts to limit negative stereotypes and racial discrimination in legal proceedings

Cons

  • Prosecution arguing that the rap lyrics were relevant to proving charges