This paper evaluates how The War on Drugs ultimately failed and resulted in the continuous cycle of oppression of at-risk group. It is seen how this has occurred through harsh policies, the rise in poverty, mass incarceration, and the state of the communities most affected by the War on Drugs. Social Disorganization and Anomie/Strain Theory are discussed to develop a better understanding of effects of the War on Drugs, and why these communities will not be able to heal or thrive with the War on Drugs in full swing. This paper reviews literature that delves into and studies the negative effects of War on Drugs, through systemic issues caused by the War on Drugs, problematic policies, and why the War on Drugs is not effective overall. Due to the ineffectiveness of the War on Drugs and the harm it causes, there is a call to end the War on Drugs. This paper calls for a policy that ends the War and then provides social services that will aide in mitigating any harm caused.

Professor Brumfield-Young has been supportive and helpful through the entire process of writing this paper.