Final answer:
The over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system can be attributed to a history of colonization, economic hardships, educational challenges, systemic racism, under-reporting of crimes against Indigenous peoples, and marginalization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Six Explanations for Indigenous Over-representation in the Justice System
The over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system is a complex issue with several contributing factors:
- Historical colonization and displacement have perpetuated cycles of poverty and social challenges within Indigenous communities.
- Lack of economic opportunities on reservations exacerbates issues such as substance addiction, which can lead to higher crime rates.
- Educational disparities hinder social mobility and may lead to increased encounters with law enforcement.
- The concept of othering and systemic racism affects how Indigenous peoples are treated by institutions, including the justice system.
- Under-reporting and insufficient investigations of crimes against Indigenous peoples, such as the plight of missing and murdered Indigenous women, show a disparity in protection under the law.
- Many Indigenous peoples live at the margins of society, which can lead to higher risks of encountering the justice system and fewer resources to navigate .