The Mistreatment of Black Children in the Criminal Justice System

By Jayden McLean – 14yrs old- Kissimmee, Fl

Dear Mayor Olga Gonzalez,

As the Mayor of Kissimmee, I would like to discuss the mistreatment of black children that often occurs in our society. The mistreatment has been passed down from generation to generation. It doesn’t matter the system, whether it be public school, foster care, or in an immigration detainment center, these systems treat Blacks differently and more harshly than their White counterparts.

Sadly, the most form of mistreatment towards African American kids is in the criminal justice system. The government uses its power to derail Blacks by charging them as adults, causing many minority youths to lose their freedom, due to this unfair treatment. Later in life, the result leads to less education, a potential increase in health problems, and suicidal attempts.

Children have the right to be children, but it appears when justice is applied to black minorities, the system ignores this reality. Young people mature in their mid-20s, which helps them resist emotional impulses, thanks to the full development of their brains. Often, many Black youths are misjudged based on their skin color and not on their character. Today, we see black offenders as animals or savages who engage in “wilding behavior.” These types of dehumanizing identification often result in Black children being seen as predators. The system itself uses different ages and changes them. Some 13-year-old black boys are tried as adults, and because of their advanced physical development, Black girls are viewed as adults over their White counterparts.

Ms. Gonzalez, as Mayor, there are many things that you can do to help the system. First, invest in better programs within schools that focus on helping minorities. Second, join forces with the Governor and other state leaders to collaborate and find better ways of treating Black children within the juvenile system. Third, find solutions that consider less harmful ways to help those who are in trouble. Finally, have laws that would prevent young teens from being charged as adults.  All kids should be treated fairly regardless of their skin color and background.

I hope I have caused you to realize the impact that the system has on our Black youths.

Thank you for your time.