Black Muslim perceptions of police respectfulness and stop legitimacy

Abstract

Abstract There is limited understanding of how perceptions of racially discriminatory policing are complicated by ethnicity, particularly among Black Muslims. Given the dual-pronged discrimination they likely experience, this study examines how racial and Muslim identity, systemic racism, and knowledge of Black history influence perceptions of police respectfulness and stop legitimacy among a nationwide sample of Black Muslims. Results determined a negative relationship between perceptions of racism as a major problem in America and police respectfulness and a positive relationship between knowledge of Black history and illegitimate stops. These findings support the continued implementation of policies to eliminate racism and develop a broader understanding of American Black history, as well as speak to the benefits of ongoing police reforms in this regard.