"13th" is a powerful documentary directed by Ava DuVernay that explores the history of racial inequality in the United States. The film's title refers to the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery but also allowed for the imprisonment of individuals as a form of punishment. This loophole has led to the mass incarceration of African Americans, highlighting systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
Through interviews, archival footage, and statistics, "13th" reveals how policies and societal attitudes have perpetuated a cycle of oppression. It connects historical events, such as the Civil Rights Movement, to contemporary issues like the War on Drugs, urging viewers to confront the ongoing impact of these injustices.