NCJ Number
212107
Journal
Criminal Justice: The International Journal of Policy and Practice Volume: 5 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2005 Pages: 357-377
Date Published
November 2005
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This study exploreds the role of Black and Asian professional organizations in overcoming institutional racism within the criminal justice services of Great Britain.
Abstract
Under the leadership of the New Labour party in Great Britain, racial equality has assumed a central place in the political agenda of the criminal justice service, which comes after years of “racism-blind” leadership under the Conservative Government. This analysis explores the role and influence of Black and Asian professional associations in developing anti-discriminatory employment practices within the criminal justice services in Great Britain. Data were draw from in-depth interviews with chairs of the National Black Police Association, the Metropolitan Police Service Black Police Association, the National Association of Black Crown Prosecutors, the Association of Black Probation Officers, the National Association of Asian Probation Staff, the Home Office Network and Respect, and two senior officials working on race and diversity issues within the Home Office. A small case study of the Association of Black Probation Officers was also conducted. Interviews mainly focused on internal supportive functions to assist members who have experienced occupational racism. Results indicated that despite the reform agenda of the New Labour Government, racism is still a pervasive experience of criminal justice work for many staff members. Continued support and work toward racial equality should dominate the agendas of Black and Asian professional organizations for years to come. The author proposes that these organizations should focus on improving service delivery to minority ethnic users because they represent an under-utilized resource for the elimination of institutional racism. Notes, references