Racial Disparities in Sentencing of Indigenous Women and Girls [poster]

Abstract

This research project examines racial disparities in sentencing affecting Indigenous women and girls within the criminal justice system. Research has documented a history of disparity in sentencing among women of color. However, there is a scarcity of data focused specifically on Indigenous peoples, who tend to be lumped into other race groups and receive the label of “other.” This can conceal disparities and lead to inaccurate perceptions. This project consisted of a synthesis of pre-existing research in order to examine the current racial sentencing disparities that are occurring with Indigenous women and girls. I also compared the sentencing outcomes of these Indigenous women and girls to other groups of women within the criminal justice system. Through reviewing and analyzing the existing literature, this comparative research project examines whether differences and/or disparities exist