The massive international demonstrations after the police murder of George Floyd have focused chiefly on the racism and violence of law enforcement. This focus is necessary and well-placed, given the enormity and gravity of the problem of police brutality.

But our justice system will not become legal just simply by reforming our police forces, or simply convicting so-called “bad apple” cops. The racism that denies people of color true justice pervades all levels of the criminal justice system: judges, prosecutors, probation offices, and the private and public defense bar.