The United States is an epicenter of mass incarceration. It’s time to end that.

The United States is home to less than 5 percent of the world’s population, yet 16 percent of all incarcerated people, making our incarceration rate one of the highest in the world. On any given day, close to two million people are held in U.S. jails and prisons. Vera is working to end this system of mass incarceration.

Vera brings together experts, activists, and policymakers to end mass incarceration. We provide trusted data and research illustrating the harms of mass incarceration, help change state and local laws, and work with prosecutors to reduce incarceration and racial disparities. Together, with allies from across the political spectrum and around the country, we can end mass incarceration, build safer communities, and affirm human dignity.

Learn more about the history of mass incarceration and vast racial disparities found within the system: