Voices of Change: Narratives of African Americans and Their Recommendations for Reforming Law Enforcement Practices

The focus of this study was to explore real-life experiences African Americans have with law enforcement to suggest changes that can be put into action to improve interactions, fairness, and accountability. This study, which makes use of a case study technique, examined perceptions of police interactions and engagement from the viewpoints of community members. The study specifically responded to the following two research questions: 1) What is the narrative of individuals in the African American community regarding law enforcement? 2) What changes do participants suggest are needed to improve interactions and establish a better relationship between the African American community and law enforcement? This study used theme analysis and in-depth interviews with 10 minority residents of North Carolina's Eastern and Northeast Central regions to investigate their perspectives on the interaction they have with law enforcement, as well as what is needed to foster and build a better relationship between the two groups. The following themes emerged from the study: perceptions of law enforcement, direct experiences with the police, impact of police actions on trust, emotional and psychological impact, calls for education and reform, positive presence and visibility, and accountability in action. These findings highlight a few significant factors of interactions between police and communities that suggest instances of unfair treatment, its emotional effects, and the potential of positive changes by increased awareness and accountability. This study adds to continuing discussions of justice, equity, and social change in law enforcement practices by bringing up the voices of individuals affected.