Obama discusses criminal justice reform efforts in weekly address

... much of our criminal justice system remains unfair. In recent years, more of our eyes have been opened to this truth. We can’t close them anymore. And good people, of all political persuasions, are eager to do something about it.

President Obama in this morning's weekly address tackled the topic of criminal justice reform, pointing to some progress that's been made in recent years, some current positive signs that change is in the offing, and his own plans for the future.

He discussed crack and cocaine sentencing reform he signed, as well as investments in at-risk youth programs in schools and his commutation of sentences. But, as usual in his weekly address, while he acknowledged progress, he also insisted more needs to be done. In that vein, he announced he'll be traveling the country in coming weeks to meet with stakeholders in the criminal justice system—communities wrestling with drug abuse, law enforcement representatives, police chiefs, and former prisoners.

He also will meet with legislators working on current justice reform bills. He closed his remarks tying reform to our national sense of purpose:

From the halls of Congress to the classrooms in our schools, we pledge allegiance to one nation under God with liberty, and justice, for all. Justice means that every child deserves a chance to grow up safe and secure, without the threat of violence. Justice means that the punishment should fit the crime. And justice means allowing our fellow Americans who have made mistakes to pay their debt to society, and re-join their community as active, rehabilitated citizens.

To read the transcript in full, check below the fold or visit the White House website.