Throughout the United States, it has been reported that some police officers
stop motorists of certain racial or ethnic groups because the officers believe
that these groups are more likely than others to commit certain types of crime.
After the attacks of September 11, 2001, this controversial practice, often
known as "racial profiling," has been revived as a tactic in the "war on
terrorism."
This unit examines racial profiling and how it has been used both before and
after September 11. It defines and explains public policy, what it is, and how
it works. It introduces GRADE, a tool for evaluating this and other public
policies. And this unit introduces a deliberation strategy called "civil
conversations" that will help people discuss-not debate-fundamental texts and
ideas.
Focus Questions
Should the police be allowed to consider race when deciding whether to stop
someone?
Should law enforcement agencies be allowed to consider a person's ethnic
background or national origin as part of a profile to prevent potential
terrorist activities?
Objectives
Define the practice of racial profiling and how it is used by law enforcement
agencies.
Explain how the focus and practice of racial profiling has changed and/or
remained the same since September 11.
Develop and support a reasoned position about the profiling of persons of Arab,
Middle Eastern, or Muslim background and the larger balance of civil liberties
and public security.
Materials
A. Reading: Racial Profiling Before September 11
B. Activity: Comparing Racial Profiling Before and After September 11
C. Source: Is it Profiling? A Letter from the U.S. Attorney's Office
D. Strategy: Civil Conversations
E. Racial Profiling of Muslims and Persons of Middle Eastern or Arab Descent:
Questions to Consider and Suggested Service Projects
Racial Profiling of Muslims and Persons of Middle Eastern or Arab Descent:
Selected Community, Print, and Internet Resources
Last updated: September 15, 2006
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