Final answer:
The criminal justice system has been a primary concern of the African American community in the modern era due to disproportionate representation, racism, and economic factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The criminal justice system has been a primary concern of many within the African American community in the modern era due to several factors. One major factor is the disproportionate representation of African Americans in the criminal justice system. Statistics show that a significant number of black men are awaiting trial, in jail, or in some type of parole system, while at the same time, inequalities in law enforcement and sentencing have been observed.
Another important factor is the historical legacy of racism in the criminal justice system. African Americans have faced systemic racism and discriminatory practices in the legal system for decades. Unfair treatment, harsher penalties, and higher incarceration rates for black individuals have contributed to deep-seated mistrust and concerns within the African American community.
Economic and societal factors also play a role. Lack of well-paying jobs, poverty, and the legacy of segregation have resulted in many African Americans living in under-served neighborhoods with limited opportunities. These neighborhoods often experience higher rates of crime and violence, further reinforcing the focus on the criminal justice system within the African American community.