Conclusion

Overall, the survey showed some consensus among respondents around several factors that contribute to the overrepresentation of Black people in the CJS. It also confirmed that several recommendations provided in the CBJS Framework have the potential to address the issue of overrepresentation. Among key factors that need to be addressed were the influence of systemic racism and institutional bias and discrimination, which many highlighted as a significant challenge as it underpins all areas of society and is a key factor in the overrepresentation issue. Another key theme was the need for improved human resources and training practices across the CJS from policing to courts and corrections. This would include hiring more Black people, and promoting Black people to positions of power, as well as shifting competencies for hiring, increasing accountability and oversight, and increasing cultural sensitivity training. Finally, many respondents agreed that to combat systemic discrimination and Black overrepresentation in the CJS, Black communities need improved access to economic opportunities, as well as strengthened and culturally appropriate community-supports and social services.