Reference no: EM133593395
Assignment:
Compare your respective approaches to advocacy. Does your method need to change based on the social problem or geographic region below.
The social justice brief that I have selected is The Role of Racial Profiling in Encounters with Law Enforcement.
I selected this brief because the role of racial profiling and encounters with law enforcement is an ongoing issue within the population for people of color. Racial profiling has led to more arrests than not, and unfortunately it is a norm in our communities. For decades African American and Latino communities have accused law enforcement of targeting them without probable cause (NASW, n.d.). I chose this brief because it violates equal rights and the dignity of people of color. As an African American female, I too have suffered from racial profiling and encounters with law enforcement. I thank God that the outcome was not as traumatic as others have suffered, but it was damaging still. To have the feeling and to know that you are a target, suspect, and discriminated against because of the color of your skin is something that no one should ever have to encounter. I am raising two African American boys and my husband is African American, and I worry about them every day. For me this is such a sad realization, however it is something that my husband and I must prepare our boys for.
Advocacy is important because it allows individuals to have their voices heard in the public sphere, attracting attention from politicians, the media, and high-profile individuals around the world (Higa, n.d.). Advocacy protects human rights and helps to raise awareness of this issue. I would advocate for a change based on the issue by educating myself more on the statistics and data that is out there. Education is the first step for the advocate and for others.
Understanding racial profiling and how it affects communities is important. Data can be obtained by research, articles, discussions, and attending any meetings on the subject. Raising awareness and community involvement will also be crucial to change. Sharing stories of those who are affected within the community will bring awareness to racial profiling. Sharing experiences will help activate ideas and methods of change. Change takes time, but being consistent and committed will continue to shine a light on the role of racial profiling and encounters with law enforcement.