Abstract
This paper examines the contemporary issue of the overrepresentation of Aboriginal women in Canadian prisons and suggests that the systemic discrimination and myriad disadvantages that these women face, both within the context of the justice system and in society in general, results in an ongoing cycle of victimization and offending. Specifically, this paper addresses the historical and contemporary forms of violence and victimization that these women face, and examines the impact that this victimization has on offending behaviors. Finally, through an exploration of policing practices, and the complex issue of sentencing Aboriginal offenders, this paper concludes that Aboriginal women are severely disadvantaged at all stages of the criminal justice system, largely as a result of pervasive cultural stereotypes, resulting in worse outcomes for these offenders, and ultimately contributing to the issue of overrepresentation.
Highlights
Throughout recent history, there has been an increased awareness of the overrepresentation of Aboriginal peoples in prison
Aboriginal women face a severe disadvantage at all levels of the justice system
This disadvantage begins before the first contact with the justice system is even initiated, as the high levels of victimization that these women face as a result of their gender and cultural background places them at a much higher risk of offending than non-Aboriginal women
Summary
Throughout recent history, there has been an increased awareness of the overrepresentation of Aboriginal peoples in prison. The number of Aboriginal women inmates doubled” (Office of the Correctional Investigator, 2015) As this overrepresentation is so dramatic in comparison to other minority groups, and the problem has only gotten worse over time, it gives rise to the question of why this specific population is so frequently in contact with the law. Through their frequent victimization, both historically and in a contemporary context, their mistreatment by the police and the court system, as well as their experiences during incarceration, Aboriginal women are often placed at a severe disadvantage both in the justice system and in society in general. This disadvantage sets in motion a cycle of victimization and offending behaviors, leading to their severe overrepresentation in the prison system
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
