Introduction
DNA is the essence of who we are. It is our unique genetic fingerprint, encoded with information that belongs solely to the individual. Yet, in an alarming trend, state governments have begun to forcibly take DNA samples from individuals—often without their consent—and store them in repositories. This practice raises significant concerns about privacy, human rights, and the abuse of power by governments. The most chilling aspect of this issue is the growing trend of codifying such acts into law, as if a person’s blood evidence can be treated as government property.
As someone who has experienced the long arm of government overreach firsthand, I understand just how dangerous this trajectory can be. The State of Arizona, in my own wrongful conviction, made attempts to assert authority over my DNA without legitimate cause. Such actions aren’t just unethical; they’re criminal. Powerful nations wielding DNA as a tool of control are in direct violation of international human rights laws.
DNA Is Proprietary to the Individual
Let’s be clear: DNA is proprietary to the individual. It is not just a biological marker—it is a person’s most intimate and unique identifier. The idea that a government can claim ownership or authority over a person’s DNA violates fundamental human rights. It is tantamount to claiming ownership over the person themselves. In other words, slavery.
DNA carries sensitive information about an individual’s health, family, and lineage. Governments with access to this data have the power to weaponize it, creating a future where discrimination based on genetics becomes a norm. Additionally, the mismanagement or misuse of DNA data can have devastating consequences, from wrongful imprisonment to the exploitation of entire populations for scientific or political gain.
Governments and the Codification of Dangerous Practices
Several state governments have enacted legislation that allows them to take DNA samples by force. In some cases, this is done under the guise of criminal investigations, where individuals arrested for minor offenses are compelled to provide DNA samples, even before being convicted. In Arizona, for example, the state has codified this practice into law under ARS §13-610, which mandates DNA collection for certain offenses, regardless of whether there’s been a conviction.
“The idea that a government can claim ownership or authority over a person’s DNA violates fundamental human rights. It is tantamount to claiming ownership over the person themselves. In other words, slavery.”
– Ewing Redmond Samuels III
The concern isn’t just limited to criminal cases. Governments have begun to expand their DNA repositories, taking samples from individuals for immigration purposes, or even for public health monitoring, claiming these are necessary measures for national security. However, the reality is far more sinister. Once your DNA is in a government’s database, you lose control over how it is used or stored. The lack of transparency around these repositories means that individuals have no way to know if their DNA is being sold, used for experimentation, or shared with foreign governments.
The International Law Perspective
The forceful collection of DNA by governments violates several international laws. Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights clearly states: “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.” The collection of DNA without consent is a direct breach of this principle.
Additionally, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which the United States is a signatory, emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and privacy. Article 17 of the ICCPR specifically protects individuals from arbitrary interference with their privacy and family. The forced extraction and storage of DNA by governments, without just cause, constitutes a gross violation of these protections. Nations that engage in these practices are in direct violation of the international legal frameworks they claim to uphold.
DNA: A Tool for Oppression
Governments possessing vast DNA repositories have immense power. What makes this even more terrifying is that powerful nations, like the United States, can engage in similar practices under the radar, with little to no oversight. In my own experience, the Arizona Department of Corrections took my DNA without sufficient justification. I was forced to submit to this invasion of my privacy, despite my wrongful and unlawful conviction. Governments that operate in this manner are in clear violation of both domestic and international law.
Why This Matters Now
Powerful nations with DNA repositories are walking a fine line between governance and oppression. The temptation to use this data for political, economic, or scientific gain is too great. Once governments control DNA, they can manipulate populations at will—either by targeting specific groups or using this data for nefarious purposes such as cloning, biological warfare, or social engineering.
Historically, the abuse of science for political ends has led to atrocities. The eugenics movement of the early 20th century, where governments sought to manipulate human reproduction for racial purity, is a grim reminder of how scientific data, when wielded irresponsibly by the state, can lead to the dehumanization of entire populations. The forcible taking and codification of DNA collection are a modern-day manifestation of this same dangerous ideology.
Safeguarding Science in State Agencies Report:
My Own Experience
Having been wrongfully convicted in the State of Arizona, I know firsthand how the legal system can be weaponized against individuals. The state attempted to assert its right to my DNA despite my innocence, engaging in practices that were not only invasive but wholly unjustified. This is not just a violation of my rights but an example of a growing trend where the government believes it has the right to claim ownership over an individual’s biological data. This sets a dangerous precedent, one that should concern every citizen.
“The government believes it has the right to claim ownership over an individual’s biological data.” – Ewing Redmond Samuels III
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The forced collection of DNA is not just a privacy issue—it is a human rights issue. It gives governments unparalleled power over individuals and opens the door for widespread abuse. Countries like the United States are engaging in criminal conduct by codifying the collection and storage of DNA under the guise of law and order. But make no mistake—this is a violation of international law, a breach of human rights, and an affront to the very concept of individual autonomy.
It is time for us to speak out. Governments must be held accountable for these practices, and individuals must have the right to own their DNA. The international community must take a firm stand against this overreach, and nations that violate these rights must face consequences on the global stage. Our DNA is our own—it is not the property of the state.
If governments continue down this dangerous path, we must use every legal and international tool at our disposal to push back. Our future depends on it.
Citations and References:
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 12
- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Article 17
- Arizona Revised Statutes §13-610 (DNA Collection Law)
- Human Rights Watch: “China: Big Data Program Targets Xinjiang’s Muslims”
Until Next Time…
I Am,
Ewing Redmond Samuels III
