The Importance Of Diversity In Criminal Justice

According to Wonders (2009), understanding that difference is socially constructed is a critical first in ensuring justice in a democratic society (p.14). In today’s American society, where high profile cases of unarmed black males dying at the hands of the police permeate the media, this critical first step is more important than ever. Recent events across the country have highlighted the lack of diversity in police departments and other law enforcement agencies. Across the nation are acute differences between the makeup of local police forces and the demographics of the communities they serve (“Diversity In Law”, 2015). A lack of diversity in the police and other criminal justice departments may have harmful consequences for everyone involved.

Diversity has been described as the understanding that people are all not alike and regardless of race, color, creed, or culture, they should all be treated with respect and dignity (“Leadership And Diversity”, 2013). It is promoted in many workplaces including those within the criminal justice system increasing sensitivity and awareness to produce a better quality of work. Leadership has different meanings to different people but essentially it refers to guiding others to do what needs to be done. According to Dubrin (2013), the ability to effectively lead others is a rare quality that gets rarer at the highest levels of organizations because such complex positions require a vast array of leadership skills (p. 3). Leaders in the criminal justice system must consider the implications of diversity not only in the interactions between officers and offenders but among the interaction of criminal justice officers and other

 Do not avoid discussing racial or ethical issues with other officers or citizens.

 Make a conscious effort to treat all segments of society fairly and objectively.

In addition to making improvements, law enforcement agencies can implement training and education to develop effective leadership. Law enforcement leaders must ensure that their staff are properly developed and trained in order to deal with a variety of issues such as diversity (Moriarity, 2009). Although a racial balance in police departments does not guarantee peace between police and the community, law enforcement agencies across the country are strengthening efforts to diversify their departments (Alcindor & Pezenstadler, 2015). Efforts are challenged by tight budgets, hiring freezes, and a shrinking pool of qualified candidates. Still, some departments such as the Oakland Police Department look past traditional methods for recruiting and their success is the proof (Alcindor & Pezenstadler,