How Antiracist Frameworks Can Transform Policing Procedures: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

This qualitative case study examines the development of a racially responsive policing procedure using an antiracist framework within a suburban community in the Northeastern United States. By centering the experiences of civilian community members, police officials, and government actors, the study explores how antiracist principles can shape procedural development to address racialized policing practices and racial trauma. Findings highlight three central themes: trust and legitimacy, inclusion and belonging, and healing and liberation. Through an antiracist process, participants collaboratively designed a policing procedure that not only addressed racial disparities but also expanded to include other marginalized identities, evolving into an identity-responsive policing directive. The study underscores the importance of community-driven, participatory governance in policing reform, demonstrating that antiracist frameworks can strengthen trust, foster healing, and enhance procedural legitimacy. These findings provide a model for reimagining police–community relations and offer critical insights for law enforcement agencies and policymakers seeking to embed antiracist principles into policing practices. By prioritizing systemic change over individual-level interventions, this research contributes to the broader discourse on justice-oriented police reform and the potential for antiracist frameworks to transform law enforcement procedures.

Keywords

race and policing antiracist procedure development citizen satisfaction restorative justice intersectionality identity-responsive policing antiracist policing race and procedural justice participatory governance

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