Racial Profiling
People often think that human rights violations only happen in other areas of the world, not in the United States. In reality, human rights abuses are committed daily in the U.S., even in the most routine aspects of people's lives. The USA Program of Amnesty International concentrates on combating these types of human rights abuses, including racial profiling, police brutality, prison conditions, and abuses in the "war on terror."
- Things You Can Do to Raise Awareness about Racial Profiling
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The USA Program urges Congress to enact legislation to end racial profiling. You can make a difference by raising awareness in your community and at your school.Note: Make sure to gain the cooperation and permission of school administrators before planning any of the following activities.
Level 1: Informational Table (30 - 60 Minutes)
Setup an informational table during lunchtime or after school. Before you start, check out our website to find out your state's position on racial profiling and read our report Threat and Humiliation. At your table, have fact sheets and handouts. Drop us an email and we'll send you "Born Suspect" posters and stickers, as well as copies of our report. Tell us your mailing address and how much you want, and we'll send it to you at no cost! (Allow 2 weeks for delivery time.)
Level 2: Dialogue Wall (2 Hours)
Create a dialogue wall to draw attention to the problem of racial profiling. Pick a central location and decorate it with pictures, newspaper clippings, quotes, facts, and stories. Catch the local angle with information about state and local policies and incidents. Invite people to draw their own silhouette or provide cutouts made in advance. Ask people to write a personal story or quote on the silhouette then have them post it on the dialogue wall.
Level 3: Open Mic/Poetry Jam (3-4 Hours)
An open mic/poetry jam is an excellent way to end a week of action and reach a diverse audience. Keep things fun by integrating music and art. Encourage people to share their own testimonials, but allow people to perform the work of others, from their favorite poem to a popular song. For a powerful visual, hang a white sheet in front of performers and shine a light at their back, casting their profile onto the sheet.
Make sure to advertise well and reach out to students and groups interested in performance art and multiculturalism. You can also use this to highlight a larger night of awareness, with workshops, speakers, and other activities. You might want to setup a table with information, actions, stickers, posters, and snacks.