Kristin Henning Bücher

This analysis delves into the brutal realities of racist policing in America, particularly the hidden day-to-day abuses faced by Black youth under constant surveillance and threat from law enforcement. Drawing on twenty-five years of experience in Washington, D.C.’s juvenile court, the author confronts the irrational fears surrounding Black youth and argues that the crisis in policing is rooted in its treatment of Black children. Discriminatory policing has instilled fear, resentment, and resistance in a generation of Black teenagers, leading to long-term trauma and consequences. Unlike their white counterparts, who enjoy the freedom to explore their identities, Black youth are perceived as threats and are denied the opportunity for healthy development. The author explores the criminalization of Black play, sexuality, and cultural expressions, as well as the pervasive effects of police presence in schools. This work highlights the trauma inflicted on Black adolescents and is particularly relevant in light of recent global outrage over racial injustice and inequality, making it a crucial read for understanding the systemic issues at play.