Mass incarceration refers to the substantial increase in the number of individuals imprisoned, particularly in the United States, over the last few decades. This phenomenon has been driven by various factors, including stringent drug laws and systemic inequalities, leading to a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, especially African Americans and Latinos. The consequences of mass incarceration extend beyond prison walls, affecting families and communities. It contributes to cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement, as individuals with criminal records often face barriers to employment, housing, and voting rights, perpetuating social and economic inequalities.