Using Data, Research, and Evidence to Enhance Tribal Justice Strategies

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

Participants in this roundtable section will discuss the gaps in a lack of good research to support data-driven and evidence based approaches in Tribal justice systems; Specific challenges facing tribes and researchers in conducting research in Indian Country including more limited data about crime, limited capacity to conduct research, historic distrust between tribes and researchers and significant variance between the tribal justice approaches; Current efforts of OJP to address these gaps in terms of enhanced data collection by tribal justice systems, building capacity and supporting a focus on translating evidence based practices with tribal justice systems; Challenges and opportunities in translating effective approaches in state and local settings to tribal settings especially in the areas of family and sexual violence, healing to wellness courts and new authorities of tribes under TLOA and VAWA authorization; Potential partners to enhance and sustain capacity including partnerships with tribal colleges and universities.

Sub Unit

• Area VIII: Roundtables

Chair

• Elizabeth "Betsi" Griffith, Bureau of Justice Assistance, USDOJ

Discussants

• Christine R. Crossland, National Institute of Justice, USDOJ

• Jerry Gardner, Tribal Law & Policy Institute