A House Systemically Divided: White Supremacy’s Grip on Justice

• In Event: Manifestations of Racial Victimization

Abstract

We critically examine systemic racism within the US criminal justice system, drawing upon Critical Race Theory (CRT) to elucidate its cyclical nature. While CRT's tenet of interest convergence traditionally aligns with the interests of the majority, this study posits that alignment often occurs with the interests of the powerful.

Beginning with an analysis of the historical legacy of slavery and its ongoing economic implications, our study explores how the racialization of crime has evolved over time. Contemporary manifestations of systemic racism, including the infiltration of white supremacist ideologies within law enforcement and their intersection with Christian nationalism and neo-Confederate movements, exacerbate racial disparities in policing, prosecution, and incarceration. This victimization extends to segments of both the white majority and the black minority, highlighting the pervasive influence of power dynamics within the criminal justice system.

By synthesizing historical analysis with contemporary empirical research, this paper offers a nuanced understanding of structural inequalities and institutional biases. It underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to address racial discrimination and promote fairness, contributing to a deeper understanding of systematic bias, informing policy discussions and interventions aimed at fostering inclusivity, equity, and social justice.

Author

• Kieren Aris, John Jay College of Criminal Justice / CUNY Graduate Center