The influence of awareness of racism on policy decisions: a qualitative study of local government officals' support for racially conscious policing policies

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the connection between awareness of racism and racial equity in procedural justice. Racial equity in policing procedural justice is attributed to intentional policy decisions that aim to eliminate racial disparity in policing outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine if awareness of racism influences local policymakers' support for racially conscious policing policies. Data were gathered for this study through semi-structured interviews with local government officials from a minority-majority city in the southeastern area of the United States. Six transcribed interviews were inductively coded and categorized in topics of community policing, citizen oversight boards, stop and frisk and deadly force. Thematic analysis was used to generate codes and identify themes in the data. Results of the study indicated an awareness of the influence of racism among respondents. The results also suggested collective support among respondents for reconstructing policing policies to enhance responsiveness, transparency, dignity, and respect for life. These results inform policing policies related to recruitment, hiring and training of police officers and the standards for accountability that apply to policing. The result of this study contributes to research centered on transformative change by emphasizing the development of policing standards rooted in providing meaningful service to citizens, enhancing the relationship between police and the African American community, and creating lasting change in local communities.--Author's abstract