Race, Gender, Class, and Criminal Justice ― Examining Barriers to Justice

In the United States, those who become involved or interact with the criminal justice system often experience the system differently based on their race, class, and/or gender. To better understand this problem, the textbook examines race, class, and gender from a historical perspective to help the reader make the connection between the terms historical connotations and how they are used today. The remainder of the text focuses on how one’s race, class, and/or gender can impact interactions with the police, courts, corrections, and reentry after prison.To provide more in-depth information on issues that are relevant to the topics being discussed, each chapter includes “In Focus” text boxes as well as a “Global Spotlight” text box that discusses the topic from a global perspective. Each chapter also ends with a series of discussion questions to encourage further engagement and reflection with the topic. Teaching materials includes PowerPoint lectures, test questions, and ideas for further classroom engagement.

Danielle McDonald is an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice in the Department of Political Science, Criminal Justice, and Organizational Leadership at Northern Kentucky University.