III
Blacks assigned higher bail than whites, increasing detention + conviction rate.
IV
Cash bail for nonviolent charges disproportionally criminalizes poverty
V
Nationally, Blacks incarcerated in state prisons at 5 times more than whites
VI
Michigan is one of 12 states where more than half the prison population is Black
VII
Property-tax-based school funding guarantees we receive less funding.
District 7 gets $13K/student;
Ann Arbor gets $18K/student.
VIII
The $5K gap/student lowers school standards. Underfunded schools produce undereducated people with limited job prospects - one of the strongest predictors of criminal involvement.
To promote safety, justice and equity in our district, Seema will push for state funding to bring Community Violence Intervention (CVI) zones that prevent violence before it starts with investments in job placements, housing, mental health services, youth programs and after-school programs. She will end Cash Bail for Nonviolent Offenses and redirect resources from incarceration toward treatment programs for mental health crises and substance use. People in crisis need treatment, not a jail cell. Seema will prioritize funding for returning citizens for transitional & affordable housing, employment training & placement, substance use treatment, healthcare, and mentorships. Successful reentry reduces recidivism and strengthens communities. Seema will fight to mandate body cameras and independent oversight to record every law enforcement interaction. She will also fight to reform sentencing laws that disproportionately impact communities of color. Seema will promote equitable weighted school funding based on the needs of children — so they can get off on equal footing. She will also work to renovate vacant homes for owner-occupation to prevent illegal activity and promote neighborhood safety.