Systemic racism embedded in policing has disproportionately harmed the health of Black and Brown people throughout their lifespans and across generations.
The prevention of violence, including police violence, is an established public health priority. Police violence can cause injury, trauma, stress, and even premature death, affecting the health of individuals and their communities. Systemic racism within the policing system has caused disproportionate health harm among Black people and other racial/ethnic minoritized groups. Additionally, police officers have historically been misused to enforce laws criminalizing public health issues such as homelessness and substance abuse disorders. This systemic racism within policing these issues and over-policing of disproportionately Black and Brown communities have also shaped who becomes incarcerated.
