The Big Five Podcast Should judges consider race in sentencing decisions? Plus: We tackle advertising and fair pay.
Aug 7, 2025
Join Meeker Guerrier, a commentator at Noovo and RDS, and Caroline Codsi, Founder & Chief Equity Officer at Women in Governance, as they dive into the pressing issues of race in sentencing and advertising ethics. They discuss Quebec's provocative stance on systemic racism in judicial decisions and explore the controversy surrounding Zara's banned ads for promoting unhealthy body images. The conversation goes beyond the legal realm to examine beauty standards shaped by advertising and the implications of recent loyalty program changes for travelers.
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Race in Sentencing Controversy
- Considering race in sentencing intends to address systemic barriers but risks creating perceived inequality before the law.
- It may unintentionally deepen societal divides and fuel resentment among different racial groups.
Fixing Racism May Backfire
- Attempts to fix systemic racism via sentencing might cause new injustices.
- This can alienate people and fuel right-wing backlash against progressive policies.
Challenges of Race-Based Leniency
- Treating some offenders leniently because of race can infantilize them and undermine personal responsibility.
- It also raises questions about fairness for victims, many from the same communities affected.