Participatory Action Research in a Reimagined Policing

• In Event: National Science Foundation Build and Broaden Initiative: Reimaging the American Police Mandate

Abstract

Participatory action research (PAR) is isomorphic (similar in form) to methods used to sustain strong communities in a reinvisioned policing. The PAR approach is a practical intervention aimed at curbing violence through the cultivation of strong and healthy neighborhoods. By employing and compensating local residents as PAR researchers, those with the most stake in change can collect the data they need, analyze and discuss it, hypothesize what might work to improve things, evaluate findings, and make
adjustments when needed. We reimagine the police institution as emphasizing neighborhood involvement and community building by directly improving local economic opportunities and collectively strengthening the infrastructure of social capital and networks.

Authors

• Natasha Pratt-Harris, Morgan State University

• Christina Williams, Morgan State University

• Rosa Hayes, Morgan State University

• Andrea Clark, Morgan State University

• Bryan Beverly, Morgan State University