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Native Americans and the Criminal Justice System: A Historical and Contemporary Analysis

Israel Bell

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Published in Native Americans And The Criminal Justice System: Theoretical And Policy Directions

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Native Americans have a long and complex history with the criminal justice system in the United States. They have been subjected to systemic racism and discrimination within the system, and they continue to face unique challenges in navigating its complexities.

Native Americans and the Criminal Justice System: Theoretical and Policy Directions

by Jeffrey Ian Ross

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1291 KB
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Print length	:	268 pages

Historical Context

The criminal justice system in the United States was established by European colonists, and it was designed to control and oppress Native Americans. The first laws passed in the colonies were aimed at restricting Native American movement and preventing them from practicing their traditional religions. As the United States expanded westward, the government continued to pass laws that were designed to dispossess Native Americans of their land and resources.

In the 19th century, the United States government began to use the criminal justice system to punish Native Americans who resisted colonization. Many Native Americans were arrested and imprisoned for crimes such as assault, murder, and theft. The courts often treated Native Americans harshly, and they were often sentenced to long prison terms or even death.

Contemporary Challenges

Native Americans continue to face significant challenges within the criminal justice system today. They are more likely to be arrested and imprisoned than any other racial group in the United States. They are also more likely to be victims of police brutality and excessive force.

There are a number of factors that contribute to the high rates of crime and victimization among Native Americans. These include poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare. Native Americans also live in communities that are often underserved by the criminal justice system.

Efforts to Address the Problem

There are a number of efforts underway to address the problem of systemic racism and discrimination in the criminal justice system. These efforts include:

Increased funding for Native American law enforcement agencies
Training for law enforcement officers on Native American culture and history
Development of culturally-appropriate sentencing guidelines for Native American offenders
Support for community-based programs that provide support to Native Americans who are involved in the criminal justice system

These efforts are beginning to make a difference. The number of Native Americans who are arrested and imprisoned has declined in recent years. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that Native Americans have fair and equal access to justice.

The criminal justice system in the United States has a long history of racism and discrimination against Native Americans. This discrimination has led to high rates of crime and victimization among Native Americans. However, there are a number of efforts underway to address this problem. These efforts are beginning to make a difference, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that Native Americans have fair and equal access to justice.

Native Americans and the Criminal Justice System: Theoretical and Policy Directions

by Jeffrey Ian Ross

5 out of 5