In addition to a steady 25-year increase in criminal justice populations, the impact of current "get tough" policies in particular suggests continuing increases in criminal justice control rates and racially disparate impacts. While debate will continue on the degree to which the criminal justice system overall contributes to racial disparities, there is increasing evidence that policies and practices contained in the "war on drugs" have represented a disaster for young blacks and other minorities. Drug arrest policies since the 1980's have disproportionately affected blacks and other minorities, first through greatly increased numbers of drug arrests and second through increased rates of minority drug arrests. Research indicates there are racial effects of law enforcement practices, prosecution, and sentencing policies related to drug law offenses. Because a significant number of black males have come under criminal justice supervision as a result of drug offenses, the author questions current drug policies and instead recommends creating prospects for young blacks based on productive employment and social supports. 20 notes