Friday, January 4, 2019

Issues Of Concern In Law Enforcement And Race Relations

By John Thompson


The debate about racial relations is as old as human civilization. The relationships take different trajectory in religion, commerce, sports and entertainment, among other fields. However, there is increased focus on Law Enforcement and Race Relations because of police shootings and immigration issues. What are the areas of concern regarding polices and different races in the US?

Racial disparity features prominently every time an altercation happens between police and civilians with a racial angle. It is impossible to deny that there is disparity in wealth between Blacks and Whites or even Latinos. Their neighborhoods also display this disparity such that Blacks and Latinos are known to live in low income neighborhoods. Whether these disparities are a justification for continued conflicts or not is the difficult question to answer.

Strained relationship between police and people has also been blamed on racially biased behaviors. For instance, police may consider Latinos as predominantly drug peddlers and persons with no immigration documents. Blacks may also be labeled as criminals. Responding to an incident with this mindset or manning a road with the notion means that there will be no objectivity. It is such actions by police that have escalated situations unnecessarily.

Racial animus is regarded as a factor escalating the weakening relationship between police and the public. Animus is regarded as a hidden dislike that might not manifest until something happens. The hate or negative attitude is triggered by an incident that causes police to act as if they are confirming their suspicion. This means that two suspects of the same crime will be treated differently just because their race differs.

Racial prediction can also be regarded as statistical discrimination. It is bothersome to individuals and might not even be done consciously by officers involved. For instance, an officer will find out that he stops more Blacks than Whites or any other race. When two vehicles are traveling on the road, the vehicle for a Black driver will be stopped more times than that of a white. There is nothing to justify that apart from hidden statistical discrimination.

Situational risks are associated with racial animus or racial biases. For instance, once you are flagged down, there will be nothing suspicious about looking for your Drivers License below your seat or unbuckling your belt. However, a black is mistaken for drawing a gun and ends up being shot. This indicates a policeman who has already made a conclusion. Such conclusions are racially biased.

Law enforcement officers have also be blamed for reflex actions that are biased. Reflex is considered a self-defense mechanism but it must not be misused. The action a policeman takes when he sees a Black Man should be similar to when a Latino or White is the subject. The perpetual treatment of certain races with suspicion is the point of concern.

Increased awareness is required among law enforcers and the general public to reduce altercations. It is necessary to reflect backwards whenever a nasty incident occurs. When the details of the incident are discussed in communities and among police, future conflicts are prevented. Individuals and communities also have a responsibility to reduce possibility of conflicts.




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