Raphael Daniels Email & Phone Number

Hello! My name is Raphael Daniels. I am a undergraduate student at the University of Maryland, College Park studying government and politics.Although I have reservations about becoming a politician by trade, I've always had an interest in politics and resolving political and social issues the way I see fit. I find myself particularly interested in carceral and criminal justice system reform, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. I've always loved nature; my favorite activities as a child were hiking, going outside and digging for rocks and fossils, and watching nature documentaries on national geographic and BBC. My love for the natural world has made Climate change an issue of concern for me since the second grade. For this reason I am a strong supporter of strong climate policy ending fossil fuel use and ensuring the safety of all life on planet Earth as climate change becomes an ever increasing threat. My time in the University of Maryland's Science and Global Change Scholars program only strengthened these feelings.My dislike for the United States criminal justice system, particularly regarding mass incarceration and the prison industrial complex, began as I became more conscious of the deep rooted prejudices in American society and government from which these phenomena result over the course of my time in middle and high school. I've always been aware of racial discrimination in the United States, as a black man it's impossible not to be–these biases and stigmas are thrust upon me every time I leave the house. However, reading the novel Just Mercy in high school opened my eyes to the ways racial minorities, the mentally ill, the mentally disabled, abuse victims, and the poor are all subjugated by the criminal justice system (and society at large), and I am disturbed by these facts to this day. If nothing else, I am always pragmatic. I know I can't "solve" climate change or mass incarceration. But, I've decided I want to be a part of the solution, and for me, being a part of the solution is law. I hope to be either a lawmaker or public defender in my career–maybe both!Currently, I am still completing my undergraduate degree, but I am actively pursuing opportunities in criminal law and public policy. As a worker, I'd describe myself as dependable and quick on my feet.I feel my greatest strength is my willingness and readiness to learn. I look forward to working with you.

• 

  Office Assistant

  Mbi Health Services, Llc.

  Jun 2018 - Jul 2018 - Bethesda, Maryland, United States