Minority Communities

Minority Communities

There are four specific minority communities that have very different relationships with the police. On the basis of your weekly readings, identify four minority groups and discuss each group’s unique relationship with the police. Why does each group have a unique relationship with law enforcement? How have events such as September 11 and the Rodney King beating shaped this relationship?

What police practices might lead a person to believe that police are operating in a discriminatory manner? Provide examples of a police practice that might lead to a minority to think they are being treated in a discriminatory manner. Please look for current examples in the media to support your response.

Discuss the idea that most courtroom actors are white and those coming through the criminal justice system are minorities. If there were more minority actors, would minority defendants receive harsher or more lenient sentences? Please explain and justify your response.