The Equal Application of Stand Your Ground Law Defense Among Races

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Racial discrimination has been woven into the fibers of American history since the country's inception. This form of discrimination has found its way into the laws governing the state since the Dred Scott decision where African Americans were officially considered non-citizens. Although overturned by the 14th amendment, the practice of discrimination and the inability of African American's to successfully utilize the laws established for the populace has continued. Most recently, Stand Your Ground Laws have been criticized because of its lack of definition and the possibility that the defense of Stand Your Ground (SYG) laws will not be applied equally across various racial/ethnic groups. This presentation will address the racially equitable application of SYG defenses.

Author

• Tri Keah Sherai Henry, Sam Houston State University