The echoes of the Rodney King incident in the early 90s still resonate, a stark reminder of the complexities and tensions that can exist between law enforcement and the communities they serve. For me, that painful period ignited a spark, leading to the creation of a concept and a song I called “Polove.” More than just a word, “Polove” represents an evolution of the role of “Police”—a shift from mere enforcement to a profound engagement with individuals, even those who have “fallen.”
A “Polove” approach is dual-faceted. It demands that individuals take responsibility for their actions, acknowledging the harm caused. But crucially, it also embraces the understanding that, under certain circumstances, a similar misstep could happen to anyone. The ultimate goal isn’t just punishment, but to guide individuals back to a place of self-respect and active participation in society, regardless of the gravity of their past actions. It’s about helping them “come back into love with life.”
The lyrics of my song, written in 1991/1992 and released in 1996, capture this essence:
When we exclude those people, Who frustrate our perception Of how the game must be played We leave out the jig saw pieces That make up the whole, We’re leaving out the shades
Chorus I will sit with you I will listen to your story I will tell you mine We try to talk a little Everything’s coming out fine”
There but for the grace of god go I Now you must surrender as have I No longer thirsty for salt water wine
Chorus I will sit with you I will listen to your story I will tell you mine We try to make sense a little Everything’s coming out fine One by one we turn around Make a revolution everywhere
Who will dare to cast the stone Acting out of shame No misguided sacrifice Will justify the pain
A Historical Lens on Justice: When Poverty Was a Crime
Throughout history, societies across the globe have grappled with the question of how to deal with those who commit crimes. From ancient practices of retribution to more modern systems of incarceration, the philosophical underpinnings and practical applications have varied immensely. What’s particularly striking is how often acts driven by sheer desperation were met with severe punishment.
Consider the historical criminalization of poverty, a concept that feels incredibly distant yet has shaped justice systems for centuries. In 18th and 19th century Britain and Ireland, for example, increasing populations and rising crime rates led to overcrowded jails. As an “alternative” to the death penalty, a harsh system of penal transportation emerged. For the Irish, in particular, this meant being banished to Australia for what we would now consider petty offenses, like stealing a loaf of bread or other food items. These were often acts of survival, yet they resulted in perilous sea journeys and forced hard labor in a new, unforgiving land. The stories of Irish people being sent to Australia for seemingly minor transgressions highlight a system where basic human needs could be deemed criminal, showcasing a stark lack of empathy for individuals caught in the grip of poverty.
The True Measure of Civilization
This historical context brings to mind a powerful sentiment, often attributed to both Eugene V. Debs and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Eugene V. Debs, the American labor leader and Socialist, famously declared:
“While there is a lower class, I am in it, while there is a criminal element, I am of it, and while there is a soul in prison, I am not free.”
This quote, deeply rooted in Debs’ own experiences of imprisonment, speaks to a profound truth: the well-being of a society is intrinsically linked to how it treats its most vulnerable members, including those who are incarcerated. While Dostoevsky is credited with the more direct phrasing, “The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons,” both statements champion the same radical empathy. They challenge us to look beyond the crime and see the human being, recognizing our shared humanity and the societal factors that often contribute to criminal behavior.
Leading the Way: Countries Embracing “Polove” Principles
Today, we see inspiring examples of nations moving towards a more “Polove” type of approach, prioritizing rehabilitation and reintegration over mere punishment. Countries like Norway, Germany, and the Netherlands are at the forefront, boasting remarkably low recidivism rates (as low as 20% in Norway, compared to 60% in more punitive systems like the United States). Australia and Singapore also show commendable results in the 20s.
Their success stems from key principles that resonate deeply with “Polove”:
- Focus on Rehabilitation: The core principle is to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society, not just to punish them.
- Educational and Vocational Opportunities: Providing inmates with skills and education equips them for employment upon release, significantly reducing the likelihood of re-offending.
- Normalization of Prison Life: Maintaining living conditions and practices that resemble life outside prison helps inmates adjust and reintegrate more easily, fostering a sense of dignity.
- Comprehensive Reintegration Support: Offering assistance with housing, employment, and social support after release facilitates a smoother transition back into the community.
- Restorative Justice Practices: Involving victims and offenders in a process of understanding and reconciliation fosters accountability and empathy, aiding in both offender rehabilitation and victim healing.
These nations understand that a person leaving prison with skills and support is less likely to re-offend, ultimately making society safer and stronger.
What Does “Polove” Mean for Us Today?
The concept of “Polove” is not about condoning crime or absolving individuals of responsibility. Instead, it’s a call to elevate our collective approach to justice. It asks us to consider:
- How can we foster environments where individuals are supported in taking genuine responsibility, not just serving time?
- What societal structures and attitudes, akin to the historical criminalization of poverty, continue to contribute to cycles of crime today, and how can we address them?
- Can we learn from leading countries and move towards a system that prioritizes rehabilitation and reintegration, recognizing that everyone, regardless of their past, has the potential to contribute positively to society?
Releasing this song again, three decades after its inception, feels incredibly timely. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, the need for empathy, understanding, and a willingness to offer pathways to redemption has never been greater. “Polove” is an invitation to engage in a deeper conversation about what justice truly means and how we, as a society, can embody a more compassionate and effective approach to those who have stumbled.
What are your thoughts on “Polove” and the societal responsibility towards individuals who have committed crimes? How do you think we can cultivate a more empathetic and effective approach to justice? You can find the song on all the streaming sites and here’s a link to it on Soundcloud I’d love to hear your thoughts via my Contact link.