Episode notes
Maritza Perez Medina, Director of Federal Affairs at the Drug Policy Alliance. Maritza shares her journey from growing up in rural Nevada to attending Berkeley School of Law, and her long-standing desire to advocate for marginalized and vulnerable communities. She discusses her focus on public interest law, specifically criminal justice reform and drug policy, informed by her experiences with immigration advocacy and personal encounters with systemic racism. The conversation explores complex issues such as drug scheduling, the opioid crisis, harm reduction strategies, and the role of policy in addressing public health concerns. Maritza emphasizes the importance of cultural change, community support, and de-stigmatization of drug users, advocating for more informed and compassionate drug policies.
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Washington, DCLawyerCareersBarjourneyimmigrationcriminal defensecampaignLaw Schooldiversitydisabilitymental challengesjailjudgeculture shockperspectivesAdvocateserial killerblack communityculturementormentorshipadvocacypublic policypolicymakersUS CourtcollegeconfidentialityseniorityinheritanceequalityAccessibilityDrug policyDrug warOpioid crisis BerkeleyAddictionRacism