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RACISM
Why White Americans See Black Self Defense as Ultimate Violence
Far too often, racial bias impacts perception of guilt.
Self-defense is a natural reaction to danger. Yet, in America, many expect Black people to “turn the other cheek,” and not respond to any perceived imminent threat. This is evident from the racial disparities in the criminal justice system. “When the shooter is White and the victim is Black, the rate of justifiable homicide is 34%.” Yet, “when the races are reversed,” the “rate of justifiable homicide falls to only 3%.” A Harvard Review study found that legal standards may appear “race neutral on their face.” But, implicit bias can influence the relevant determinations made about a case. In other words, the race of the victim and the suspect impacts public perception. Indeed, “racially coded language activates commonly held societal assumptions.” For instance, “whether they believe the victim poses an imminent threat that necessitates violent action.” This distinction is key in self-defense cases.
It’s common for society to portray Black people as more violent than other racial groups. This, in turn, activates the assumption that they are the aggressors when circumstances arise. In this environment, the perception of guilt is intertwined with racial attitudes. This explains why White…
