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Download AudioAddressing Police Brutality Against Children and Racial Profiling
By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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KEY TAKEAWAYS |
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An 11-year-old Black girl was handcuffed after being falsely accused of stealing a car. |
The incident raises serious concerns about racial profiling and the adultification of Black children. |
The police defended their actions despite significant differences between the child’s appearance and the suspect’s description. |
Excessive force by police against children can cause lasting emotional and psychological trauma. |
There is a pressing need for police departments to address implicit bias and enhance training regarding interactions with children. |
Community activism and advocacy play a crucial role in promoting accountability and pushing for policy reforms. |
The Adultification of Black Children: A Troubling Trend in Policing
On January 14, 2025, an 11-year-old Black girl in Syracuse, New York faced a disturbing situation. She was falsely accused of stealing a car and handcuffed by deputies from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office. Captured in a video, the event has sparked online outrage, reopening debates about how law enforcement treats Black children.
The girl’s mother, Mackenzie Breeana, shared videos on Facebook showing the distress the girl experienced. Her friends appeared shocked and angry in the footage, emphasizing the painful reality of systemic racism. This incident reminds us of the continuous struggle for police reform.
The Adultification of Black Children: A Dangerous Phenomenon
This case is not an isolated event but part of a larger problem known as the adultification of Black children. It describes how adults, especially those in authority, often see Black kids as older and less innocent than white children. A 2017 study by Georgetown University’s Center on Poverty and Inequality found that young Black girls receive less protection than white girls their age, particularly in schools and juvenile justice (WHYY).
Racial Bias Impact on Black Youth
The Center for Policing Equity notes that Black children face this treatment at alarming rates, leading to discrimination. This bias can have severe consequences when police decisions impact lives so profoundly.
Understanding Implicit Bias in Policing
Implicit bias refers to unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding and actions. In policing, these biases can influence officers’ decisions, often without them realizing it. As a result, Black children may face unfair treatment due to these hidden prejudices. Officers might perceive them as more threatening or less innocent than they are. (Council on Criminal Justice)
However, acknowledging these biases is the first step toward change. Many police departments are now investing in training to help officers recognize and manage their implicit biases. These programs encourage officers to slow down, question their assumptions, and make fair decisions. Through this effort, law enforcement can work toward more equitable treatment of all individuals, especially children. (Council on Criminal Justice)
The Impact of Systemic Racism in Law Enforcement
Systemic racism involves policies and practices that exist across society, leading to unequal outcomes for different racial groups. In law enforcement, systemic racism can result in disparities in arrests, use of force, and other policing activities. These unfair practices harm communities and erode trust in the police. Recognizing systemic racism is crucial for addressing the root causes of these issues. (Amnesty International)
Understanding Systemic Racism

Systemic Racism: Policies and practices in institutions that disadvantage certain groups. Unlike personal prejudice, it exists within social, economic, and political systems around us. Recognizing this form of racism is key to addressing the root causes of racial inequalities in policing and other areas.
Moreover, systemic racism extends beyond individual attitudes; it is embedded in institutions. This means that even well-intentioned officers can contribute to unequal treatment if systemic issues are not addressed. Therefore, reforms must focus on changing policies and practices within law enforcement agencies. By tackling these systemic problems, we can move toward a fairer justice system. (Amnesty International)
The Challenge of Qualified Immunity
Qualified immunity can hinder efforts to hold police officers accountable for using excessive force or violating rights. This legal protection means that officers are not liable unless they violated a right that was clearly established in law. Critics argue that this makes it difficult for victims to seek justice. As a result, there have been calls to reform or eliminate qualified immunity to improve police accountability. (Congressional Research Service)
However, supporters of qualified immunity believe it protects officers from frivolous lawsuits and allows them to perform their duties without fear. Despite this, many believe that changes are necessary to ensure that officers are responsible for their actions. This debate is central to discussions about improving the justice system and trust between communities and law enforcement. (Congressional Research Service)
Community Actions Leading to Change
Communities often respond to incidents of police misconduct with activism and advocacy. Local organizations and national groups like the NAACP and Black Lives Matter organize protests and campaigns to raise awareness. These efforts aim to pressure policymakers to enact changes that address systemic issues. Social media also plays a vital role in amplifying these voices and mobilizing support.
Furthermore, community activism can lead to policy changes and reforms. By working together, communities can influence legislation that promotes justice and equality. This collective action is essential in driving the changes needed to ensure fair treatment for everyone, especially marginalized groups.
The Consequences of Excessive Force Against Children
Police using excessive force on kids can cause both physical and emotional harm. The 11-year-old’s distress is clear in the video, with evident emotional trauma. Unfortunately, this isn’t uncommon. A federal court ruled that three Honolulu officers could be sued for using excessive force on a 10-year-old, deeming the act entirely unnecessary (Equal Justice Initiative).
Such force not only harms individuals but also worsens systemic racism and negative stereotypes about marginalized communities. Trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve is often damaged, creating lasting cycles of fear.
Challenging the System: The Need for Accountability and Reform
The Syracuse incident shows a pressing need for police departments to address implicit bias and develop child-focused safety policies. Acknowledging the problem isn’t enough; concrete actions are vital to dismantling the racism that enables these situations.
Police should invest in training programs covering bias and cultural skills, emphasizing de-escalation and alternatives to force, especially with minors. Moreover, officers involved in racial profiling or excessive force against minors must face accountability. Transparent investigations, discipline, and legal actions are necessary for civil rights violations.
The Role of Community Activism and Advocacy
While systemic change is needed, it often starts with community activism. The reaction to the Syracuse event shows how social media and organizing bring attention to racial justice and demand changes.
Communities must report and share racial profiling incidents to hold the police accountable and raise awareness. Advocacy and civil rights groups play a crucial role in pushing for policy changes. They offer support to victims and apply pressure on officials for meaningful reforms.
Breaking the Cycle of Racial Bias in Policing
The handcuffing of an 11-year-old Black girl in Syracuse reminds us of the continued work needed to fight racial bias in policing. Communities, policymakers, and law enforcement must take action against the racism that causes these events.
By addressing the adultification of Black children, tackling bias in policing, and ensuring officer accountability, we can break the discrimination cycle. The struggle for racial justice continues, but with advocacy and reform, we hope for a future where every child feels safe in their community.
FAQ
Q: What incident sparked the recent discussion on racial profiling and policing of Black children?
A: The handcuffing of an 11-year-old Black girl in Syracuse, New York, on January 14, 2025, after she was falsely accused of stealing a car sparked significant outrage and highlighted the issue of racial profiling.
Q: What is the concept of adultification of Black children?
A: Adultification refers to the tendency of adults, particularly those in authority, to perceive Black children as less innocent and more adult-like compared to their white peers, leading to discriminatory treatment.
Q: What are the potential consequences of excessive force against children by police?
A: Excessive force can cause physical and emotional trauma, long-term psychological damage, and contribute to systemic racism, eroding trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Q: How can police departments address implicit bias?
A: Police departments can address implicit bias by investing in comprehensive training on cultural competency, de-escalation techniques, and formulating policies that prioritize children’s safety, especially from marginalized communities.
Q: What role does community activism play in combating racial profiling?
A: Community activism, including documenting incidents of racial profiling and police brutality, is crucial for holding law enforcement accountable and raising awareness about these pervasive issues.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.