AP Exclusive: African American Attorneys General Discuss Race, Politics, and the Justice System

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The United States is currently grappling with a crisis of confidence in its legal system, affecting communities across the nation irrespective of race or political affiliation.

The recent protests against police brutality have drawn attention to long-standing disparities in the administration of justice. Additionally, concerns about potential conflicts of interest within the judiciary and criticisms of the independence of judges and law enforcement, as voiced by former President Donald Trump and others, have further eroded public trust in the rule of law.

However, many African American attorneys recognized the unequal impact of the legal system on various communities long before the 2020 protests following the tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement. Several of these attorneys embarked on legal careers with the intention of improving the system itself, ultimately rising to one of its most influential positions – that of attorney general.

Currently, a record number of seven African American attorneys general serve in the United States, while notable figures like Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch have previously held the position of U.S. attorney general. Additionally, Vice President Kamala Harris made history as the first African American woman to be elected as attorney general.

In this era of increased representation, the United States grapples with intense debates on justice, race, and democracy. African American prosecutors have emerged as pivotal figures in the legal landscape, shedding light on both the accomplishments and limitations of communal efforts to reform the justice system.

The Big Big News conducted interviews with six African American attorneys general, exploring their perspectives on racial equity, public safety, police accountability, and the protection of democratic institutions. While their worldviews and strategies may differ at times, they share a common mission – to improve a system they believe often fails those it is meant to serve.

It is noteworthy that all interviewed attorneys general are affiliated with the Democratic Party. Each of them discussed how their personal backgrounds have shaped their approach to the law.

Andrea Campbell, the attorney general of Massachusetts, explained her transition to a legal career, driven by her childhood experiences intertwined with the criminal justice system. Anthony Brown and Kwame Raoul drew inspiration from their fathers, both physicians and Caribbean immigrants, instilling in them the values of never forgetting their roots and the struggles faced by others. Letitia James, the New York attorney general, emphasized her humble beginnings and her determination forged through witnessing perseverance amid hardship. Aaron Ford, the attorney general of Nevada, credited government assistance for helping him reach his current level of achievement. Keith Ellison, the attorney general of Minnesota, was raised on stories of his grandparents organizing Black voters during the Jim Crow era, which instilled in him a sensitivity to those facing repercussions for doing what is right.

Addressing Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System

The American criminal justice system is marred by well-documented inequalities and racial disparities at every level. While a significant reduction in the gap between Black and white incarceration rates occurred between 2000 and 2020, according to a September 2022 report by the Council on Criminal Justice, discrepancies persist due to varying policing and sentencing policies among states.

Anthony Brown has made it his priority to reduce Maryland’s high rate of Black male incarceration, establishing a civil rights division and expanding the power to prosecute police-involved killings under civil rights law.

Andrea Campbell and Anthony Brown underscored that reform efforts aim not only to enhance equity but also to improve law enforcement practices. They contend that improving prison conditions and achieving fairer justice systems contribute to reducing issues like recidivism and building trust in the overall justice system.

Addressing Police Misconduct

Keith Ellison emphasized that achieving better outcomes in the legal system requires ensuring fair and equitable policing across communities. While the successful prosecution of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for George Floyd’s murder was a significant milestone, Ellison believes it does not signify a substantial shift in police relations with underserved communities.

Ellison’s personal experiences as a Black man informed his approach to Chauvin’s prosecution, allowing him to anticipate defense strategies that exploited racial stereotypes. He also noted the lack of federal policing legislation passed since the national protests following Floyd’s murder, while highlighting state and local reforms as positive steps forward.

Protecting Democracy and the Rule of Law

Black prosecutors have gained national attention for litigating cases related to voting rights and election interference. Their efforts include lawsuits against attempts to undermine the legitimacy of elections and protect democracy.

Attorney General Aaron Ford led Nevada’s response to challenges to the 2020 election results and initiated an investigation into false certifications of electoral votes. These efforts are part of broader legal actions against individuals attempting to overturn the 2020 election.

Public Safety and Community Needs

Addressing public safety, cost of living, and material needs have become paramount concerns, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on crime and economic anxieties. Attorneys general have wide-ranging mandates to administer resources, allowing them to respond swiftly to pressing challenges.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul highlighted the importance of building trust between communities and law enforcement for effective crime solving. Anthony Brown and Letitia James prioritized issues like housing, aiming to combat rental discrimination and protect working-class housing. Keith Ellison established a wage theft unit, addressing an issue that disproportionately affects Black Americans.

Increasing Black Representation Among Prosecutors

Despite the rise in the number of high-profile African American attorneys in the legal system, they still often serve as trailblazers in their communities and the nation. These officials maintain close communication and collaboration, drawing inspiration from each other and using their collective perspective to influence the legal landscape.

They view their collaboration as increasingly necessary, given the rise in litigation targeting issues of interest to Black communities. They emphasize the importance of addressing ongoing assaults on diversity and inclusion initiatives, particularly in education, contracting, and employment opportunities.

In conclusion, these African American attorneys general are dedicated to making incremental changes in the legal system, with a shared commitment to justice and equity. While they acknowledge progress, they recognize that there is still work to be done to transform the system to better serve all Americans.

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More about Attorneys General

• [Council on Criminal Justice Report](Link to: https://counciloncj.org/)
• [AP’s Race and Ethnicity Team](Link to: https://apnews.com/hub/race-and-ethnicity)
• [Jonathan Logan Family Foundation](Link to: https://jonathanloganfamilyfoundation.org/)
• [AP’s democracy initiative](Link to: https://www.ap.org/about/ap-in-the-news/ap-democracy-initiative)