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Policing a Multicultural Community

NCJ Number
174597
Author(s)
H I DeGeneste; J P Sullivan
Date Published
1997
Length
26 pages
Annotation
The increasing diversity in society requires police to seriously consider their role in moderating complex intergroup relationships in the communities they serve.
Abstract
Police departments face many challenges in contemporary communities due to socioeconomic factors, migration, urbanization, and the increasing multicultural composition of communities. Intergroup conflict is not an unavoidable result of historical factors. Rather, it is frequently a uniquely modern occurrence with potentially serious consequences. Preventing, mitigating, and negotiating intergroup conflict in communities must become an integral part of police practice. The following measures are key elements of any police action plan to address multicultural issues in the communities they serve: develop and maintain language skills; develop an understanding of cultural issues; be open and accessible to all groups, offering services in an unbiased manner that respects diversity; foster a sense of trust and rapport with community members; monitor demographic and social trends; strive to prevent intergroup conflict; and demonstrate intercultural respect by example and embrace diversity in the workplace. Examples of and international perspectives on policing culturally diverse communities are presented. 68 notes and 6 tables