This segment of the Constance Baker Motley Series on Racial Inequality is
presented by the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and its Diversity and Inclusion Committee, in collaboration and co-sponsorship with the Connecticut Bar Foundation (CBF), and James W. Cooper Fellows.
About the Program
Weaving together powerful narratives and persuasive data, Professor Henning explores the criminalization of normal adolescence and makes a compelling case that racial disparities in the juvenile and criminal legal systems are deeply rooted in America's unfounded, and sometimes intentionally manufactured, fears of youth of color. Unlike white youth, who are afforded the freedom to test boundaries and figure out who they are and who they want to be, youth of color are seen as a threat and denied the privileges of healthy adolescent play, adventure, and experimentation. Professor Henning will examine the long-term consequences of racism and trauma that arise from the discriminatory and aggressive “policing” of youth and demonstrate how contemporary law enforcement practices have socialized a generation of teenagers to fear and resent the police. She will offer practical insights for serving youth of color and transforming systems that harm young people.
Highlighting findings from her book, The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth, Professor Henning will offer practical insights for serving youth of color and transforming systems that harm youth and young adults.
You Will Learn
• Review the key features of adolescence that persist across race, class, and geography;
• Understand how racial bias distorts perceptions of adolescence and innocence among youth of color;
• Identify the psychological and emotional trauma caused by the over-policing and hyper-surveillance of youth of color;
• Consider the unique harms associated with school resource officers and racially disparate discipline in schools;
• Discuss strategies for supporting and affirming youth of color; and
• Identify non-law enforcement strategies for school and community safety.
Who Should Attend
Judges, Lawyer, and professionals involved with youth.
Cost
Free
The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth
by Kristin Henning
CT: 1.5 CLE Credits (Ethics)
If the seminar is recorded, you may receive complimentary access through the CBA Education Portal beginning about six weeks after the seminar.
Closed captioning will be available during the seminar presentation for virtual attendees.