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Donde Esta La Justicia? A Call to Action on Behalf of Latino and Latina Youth in the U.S. Justice System, Final Report

NCJ Number
196500
Author(s)
Francisco A. Villarruel; Nancy E. Walker; Pamela Minifee; Omara Rivera-Vasquez; Susan Peterson; Kristen Perry
Date Published
July 2002
Length
125 pages
Annotation
This document discusses the treatment of Latino/a youth in the justice system.
Abstract
A survey of 14 States and the District of Columbia was conducted requesting information on how the State collected information on Latino/a youth in the system, barriers to data collection, data and trends on Latino/a youth in the justice system, and current policies regarding Latino/a youth in the justice system. Usable survey responses from 9 of the 14 States were received. One key finding was that Latino/a youth were significantly over-represented in the United States (U.S.) justice system and receive harsher treatment than white youth, even when charged with the same offenses. Another was that the current means for collecting and accessing data were inadequate, resulting in under-counting and inaccuracies in reporting disproportionate representation and disparate treatment of Latino/a youth in the U.S. justice system. The system failed to provide uniform definitions for the terms Latino and Hispanic; separate ethnicity from race; provide adequate bilingual services to Latino/a youth; and ensure cultural competency of staff working with Latino/a youth. Consideration of the immigration status of Latino/a youth may result in incarceration, deportation, and permanent separation from families. Anti-gang laws result in harsh consequences for Latino/a youth. Recommendations for action include determining the magnitude of the problem of over-representation and racial/ethnic disparities in the justice system; embracing the reduction of disproportionate representation of Latino/a youth in the system as a key community objective; and implementing strategies and accountability systems that eliminate disparate treatment of Latino/a youth in the justice system. Latino communities must get organized at the local level; work with schools to implement prevention programs; and create a hotline for youth and their families that provides referral services on juvenile justice issues in both Spanish and English. Latino/a youth can attend training in youth organizing and activism; meet with local and State officials that are responsible for developing juvenile justice policies; and get involved in “watchdog” groups advocating for accountability in the elimination of racial and ethnic disparities. 13 tables, 6 figures, 9 appendixes