NCJ Number
215351
Date Published
2004
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This guide presents strategies for helping new Americans work with the U.S. justice system to make their communities safer.
Abstract
Three main strategies are presented: (1) creating a dialog between new Americans and the justice system; (2) making the justice system part of the new American community; and (3) incorporating new Americans into the justice system. The first strategy of creating a dialog between new American communities and the justice system can be achieved by starting a community alliance composed of new American groups that meet to discuss the core issues facing their communities. Other recommendations include the advice to develop community safety programs, encourage the active participation of youth in community activities, and establish trusting relationships with law enforcement officers. The second strategy of making the justice system part of the new American community can be achieved by officers learning about the culture of the new American community and by reaching out to key community leaders in new American communities. Officers are further advised to show a genuine interest in the new American community and its members and to invite groups of the community to the precinct so they can become familiar with the structure and operation of the justice system. The third strategy of incorporating new Americans into the justice system can be accomplished by recruiting new officers from ethnic communities and by creating a law enforcement liaison to the new American community. Key steps for developing an action plan to strengthen new American communities are presented, such as identifying key leaders of the community, convening a town hall meeting, and seeking the assistance of leaders from outside of the community. The guide also offers discussions on the key components of the American justice system and on the factors that may affect the response of new Americans to crime, violence, and victimization in their communities.