NCJ Number
73033
Journal
Australian Police Journal Volume: 34 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1980) Pages: 168-183
Date Published
1980
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Some of the issues which arise in coping with the problems of minority groups in Australia and in overcoming the tendency by police to discriminate against them are discussed.
Abstract
When attempting to categorize groups identified as minority groups, three factors must be considered: the numerical inferiority of minority groups, which places them at a disadvantage in both political and economic activities; their oppression by dominant segments of society; and their varying degree of visibility. Those groups which can minimize differences between themselves and the dominant group can escape treatment as a minority group. Law enforcement has a responsibility to respond to changes in Australian society, particularly as they relate to dealing with immigrant and minority groups and responding to community problems. Tactics must be established to manage the problems of immigration, the cultural shock which often follows, the resulting conflicts between cultures which can lead to serious social problems, and the changing demands of a diverse society policed by a force whose composition is almost entirely indigenous. Footnotes and 14 references are supplied.