Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power: The Case for Reparations for Mass Incarceration

Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power is a book that provides an account of the economic devastation caused by mass incarceration and calls for reparations. It estimates that the damages to Black individuals, families, and communities total $7.16 trillion, which is 86% of the current Black-White wealth gap. The book argues that much of this damage has been silently absorbed by families and communities of the incarcerated and proposes a comprehensive framework for reparations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power is a comprehensive account of the devastating economic impact of mass incarceration on Black communities. The analysis reveals that the economic value of the damages to Black individuals, families, and communities amounts to $7.16 trillion, representing approximately 86 percent of the current Black-White wealth gap. This staggering figure underscores the profound and lasting consequences of this systemic injustice.

The book by Tasseli McKay highlights that the effects of mass incarceration extend beyond the incarcerated individuals themselves. Families and communities of the incarcerated often bear the brunt of the damage, compensating for the lost income and opportunities through the invisible labor of women. This hidden burden further perpetuates the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Over four decades, state-sponsored violence has inflicted severe harm on the health, economic potential, and political power of Black Americans across generations. This prolonged period of systemic oppression has created a deep and lasting impact on individuals and communities, hindering their ability to thrive and participate fully in society.

Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power is grounded in principles of transitional justice, which have been successful in guiding other nations in overcoming past eras of state violence. The book offers a comprehensive framework for initiating intensive individual and institutional reparations to address the racialized harms caused by mass incarceration.

The extent of mass incarcerations racialized harms, estimated with new rigor and scope, underscores the urgency of this work and the potential for positive change. By recognizing the historical and ongoing impact of mass incarceration, we can begin to heal the wounds and build a more equitable and just society for all.

The call for reparations is not a new one, but Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power provides a powerful and evidence-based argument for why it is essential. The book offers a roadmap for policymakers, activists, and individuals to work towards repairing the damage caused by mass incarceration and creating a more prosperous and inclusive future for Black communities.

In conclusion, Stolen Wealth, Hidden Power is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the devastating economic consequences of mass incarceration on Black communities. The book provides a comprehensive framework for reparations and offers a path forward for healing and rebuilding. It is a must-read for anyone interested in addressing systemic injustice and promoting equity and justice for all.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520389465