Nonviolent felonies are tools of oppression.

Edit: since this is apparently somewhat controversial, perhaps some explanation is in order.

"Felony" has no set definition of which crimes it must apply to, it is entirely based on the discretion of the locality setting the laws. What is a felony in one place can often be a misdemeanor in another. This is especially true for nonviolent crimes.

It's also been shown in studies that nonviolent felonies are imposed against minorities at a much higher rate, for the same crimes.

And because felonies carry additional, lifelong consequences, they are an effective way to mask a 2-tiered justice system.