Black Men Living with Police in the US in 2023
When driving away from my house one day last week, I saw three police cars in about ten blocks. As I continued driving to leave the neighborhood, I started strategizing about how I would get back home in an hour or so. I considered the different roads I might be able to take to get home, that would not go past the locations where I saw the police earlier. As I mapped out possible routes, it occurred to me that others may be interested in the thought process Black men go through in US cities today.
Black men in the United States, use methods, tactics, and strategies to reduce interactions with police. It is important to emphasize that the need for these strategies relates to the history of policing in relation to Black communities. Individuals use these in varying ways and to varied extents based on their experiences. In the US, we know of disparities in policing that have been documented in numerous research studies. It feels unjust for Black men to adapt their behavior in order to avoid negative interactions with law enforcement. These strategies are shared as descriptions of real behaviors, not as prescriptions or recommendations.
When traveling, we think ahead, we choose to avoid smaller streets, or locations we believe are more frequented by police. We avoid neighborhoods or areas known for a heavy police presence or frequent stops and searches. It is important to consider times of travel, when possible, to avoid being out late at night in certain areas to minimize the chance of police interactions. We give special attention to driving in areas that might contain officers. We try to follow all traffic rules meticulously, to avoid being pulled over. We also need to consider clothing choices. Some Black men try wearing types of clothing that we believe may make us appear less ‘threatening’ to police.
Even at home, care must be taken. Black men need to ensure that all their neighbors never have excuses to call authorities. We will be quiet and courteous at all times, if we know what is good for us. Keep the noise level low and never give neighbors reason to call authorities. Black men will try to reduce the perception of threat for nearby people, especially women. We will hum a happy tune, and make ourselves look as small and weak as possible. Many folks avoid participating in public protests or direct confrontations with the police, to reduce personal risk.
In the unfortunate situation where an interaction with a police individual has come to pass, a set of behaviors will be employed. Remember to make slow, steady movements, keeping hands in plain sight at all times. If in a car, keep both hands on the steering wheel, to reduce perceived threat. If possible, encourage others to record the interaction. Remain calm and communicate clearly when necessary. Attempt to tell a third party when being stopped by the police, either by phone or through an app, so that someone else is aware of the situation. Remember not to argue with police officers, even if you believe the stop is unjustified, to avoid escalation. Keep relevant documents, like license, registration, and insurance, readily accessible, to avoid any appearance of reaching into concealed areas of a vehicle during a traffic stop. When a Black man has interacted with a police officer and can walk away, or drive away, it feels like a remarkably good day.
These strategies reflect a reality in which individuals, due to their race, feel compelled to navigate public spaces in ways that are aimed at minimizing risk. One note is that these issues arise for all genders of Black folk in the US and can affect the lives of other people of color as well as some white individuals. Also, these tactics are a response to systemic issues and should not be seen as a reflection on the character or behavior of Black men themselves. They also highlight the importance of continuing national and local dialogues about policing, racial profiling, and systemic racism in order to work towards more equitable and just solutions.
