CONTRIBUTE TO RAISING AWARENESS IN A COMMUNITY

Abstract

Although society endeavors to improve the living conditions of different marginalized communities, hate crimes persist as constant problems that underlie broader social issues of power imbalances and marginalization. The criminal justice system requires major reform to ensure that resources are distributed with equity among the vulnerable populations to receive the support of law enforcement. However, certain states face significant problems of hate crime underreporting, which requires changing state policies in accordance with community needs. An examination of hate crime underreporting in Wyoming illustrates the lack of confidence in the police and the presence of distrust that prevents individuals from reporting such crimes. However, a comprehensive change that includes revised police training and a distinctly outlined hate crime policy complemented by police-community engagement would improve the situation.