Discrimination, Harassment, Aggressive Force, and Profiling: Experiences of Gang-Involved Youth in Miami With Law Enforcement

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Four
  In Roundtable Session: Black Voices, Discrimination, and Racial Matching (Table 17)

Abstract

Experiences of discrimination, harassment, aggressive force, and profiling by law enforcement limit the opportunities for Black and Brown youth involved in street gangs. Shifting the perspective of criminality is an important step to cultivating educational opportunities for marginalized youth. Street gang-involved youth are often demonized, yet their experiences at a young age and social constructions impact their identity and opportunities. A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews highlighted the harmful experiences of twelve Haitian youth involved in street gangs in Miami. It's crucial to examine the experiences leading to marginalization, harm, and barriers in order to construct a positive image of youth participating in social networks such as street gangs.

Author

• Christine A. Keaney, Pacific Oaks College
  Presenting Author