NCJ Number
187796
Date Published
2000
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This chapter details the past and present involvement of Native Americans within the American criminal justice system.
Abstract
The chapter notes that through a relatively complex historical and social process, the status of Indians as justice practitioners, victims, offenders, and citizens is unique within American society. Initially, the chapter traces the historical development of organized Indian systems of policing. The development of Indian policing accurately mirrors many of the related central issues of current concern to Indian populations. Accordingly, the distinct developmental factors that created an Indian police and connecting criminal justice subsystems are examined. The chapter then discusses contemporary Indian justice issues, many of which are directly linked in a causative way to past developments. This latter portion of the chapter focuses on the definition and concept of Indian multiculturalism, the linkage of Indian spirituality to justice concepts, and opposing values that often cause confusions and conflict between Indian and white populations. It contrasts Indian and Euro-American values in the areas of community, learning, philosophy, wealth, freedom, and power. 33 references