Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects
Date of Degree
2-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Program
Women's and Gender Studies
Advisor
James Wilson
Subject Categories
Arts and Humanities
Keywords
Black women, criminal justice system, police brutality, erasure, systemic racism.
Abstract
The purpose of this research study is to amplify the voices of Black women and shed light on the invisibility of Black women’s struggle with police violence and the criminal justice system. The study seeks to expose the different forms of systemic oppressive mechanisms that target Black women, such as mass incarceration and police violence. Through the lenses of intersectionality and critical race theory, the study will explore how racism and sexism contribute to the victimization of Black women via our criminal justice systems and law enforcement. Highlighting the unique experiences of Black women navigating through the criminal justice system, this study will shed light on the systemic biases and injustices they often face within a system designed to oppress people of color. We need to address many inadequacies in the criminal justice system that contribute to the victimization and mass incarceration of Black women. Black women often face disproportionate rates of imprisonment along with harsher sentences and are more likely to be met with police violence compared to any other race. Mass incarnation is also a major contributing factor in the oppression of Black women. This study will discuss policies to combat mass incarceration and police brutality; two issues that are prevalent in America. Discussions of specific cases of police brutality against Black women are revealed in this study to highlight the invisibility and systemic oppression of Black women within the discussions of police violence. This study aims to challenge the erasure and invisibility of Black women’s experiences surrounding the discussions of police violence. The goal of the study is to make Black women visible in the discussions of police violence and to reveal the lack of protection awarded to women of color, mainly Black women. It is essential to call an end to police brutality and to advocate for police training reforms along with increased transparency and accountability between law enforcement and the public to foster safety and trust in the police. Finally, this research addresses the need for systemic changes and policy enhancement that promote justice, equality, and protection of Black women’s rights.
Recommended Citation
Carrero, Carmerina, "The Double Victimization of Black Women at the Crossroads of Oppression" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/6083