What significant societal issue does Stevenson connect to the judicial system in "Just Mercy"?

The significant societal issue that Stevenson connects to the judicial system in "Just Mercy" is systemic racism and poverty. Throughout the book, Stevenson meticulously illustrates how these two factors heavily influence the criminal justice system, often leading to unjust outcomes for marginalized communities, particularly African Americans.

He discusses the historical context of racism in America and how it manifests in the legal system, resulting in disproportionate incarceration rates and harsher punishments for individuals from these communities. Poverty exacerbates this issue, as individuals lacking financial resources often cannot afford adequate legal representation, are more vulnerable to wrongful convictions, and face difficulties in navigating the judicial process.

By highlighting real-life cases and personal stories, Stevenson aims to shed light on the interplay between systemic racism and poverty, arguing that these elements not only shape individual experiences within the justice system but also reflect broader societal inequities. His advocacy work emphasizes the critical need for reform to address these systemic injustices, making it a central theme of the book.