Locking Up Our Own by James Forman
- 1. In 'Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America,' James Forman Jr. presents a profound examination of the complexities surrounding the intersection of race, crime, and the American justice system. Forman, a former public defender and a member of the African American community, delves into the historical and contemporary realities of how systemic racism has shaped policies that disproportionately affect Black individuals. Through a thorough exploration of various case studies, personal narratives, and an analysis of the societal expectations placed upon Black leaders, Forman challenges readers to understand the internal conflicts within the Black community regarding crime and punishment. He highlights the often overlooked voices of Black leaders who, in the face of rising crime rates, supported tough-on-crime policies that ultimately contributed to the mass incarceration system we see today. The book raises critical questions about accountability, justice, and the often painful choices communities must make in order to safeguard their neighborhoods while grappling with the implications of those choices on civil rights. By weaving together historical context, a critical lens on contemporary law enforcement practices, and a call for rethinking solutions to crime and justice, 'Locking Up Our Own' serves as a vital contribution to the discussion on race in America and asks us to reckon with the consequences of our collective actions.
In which city does much of 'Locking Up Our Own' take place?
A) Washington, D.C.
B) Chicago
C) Detroit
D) Baltimore
- 2. Which major piece of federal legislation does Forman discuss as contributing to mass incarceration?
A) Civil Rights Act
B) Patriot Act
C) Affordable Care Act
D) 1994 Crime Bill
- 3. How does Forman view the 'respectability politics' in black communities?
A) As completely ineffective
B) As the solution to crime
C) As contributing to punitive attitudes
D) As a white-imposed concept
- 4. What role did black churches play according to Forman's analysis?
A) Remained neutral on crime issues
B) Often supported tough crime measures
C) Advocated for prison abolition
D) Consistently opposed all policing
- 5. How does Forman characterize the war on drugs in black neighborhoods?
A) As widely supported forever
B) As targeting only white offenders
C) As devastating to community trust
D) As reducing drug use significantly
- 6. What alternative approaches does Forman suggest to mass incarceration?
A) More aggressive policing
B) Private prison expansion
C) Military-style occupation
D) Community-based solutions and rehabilitation
- 7. What does Forman argue about the complexity of addressing crime in black communities?
A) It's purely a racial issue
B) It requires understanding internal debates
C) It has simple solutions
D) Only outsiders can solve it
- 8. How does Forman's background as a public defender influence the book?
A) Focuses only on police perspectives
B) Makes him pro-prosecution
C) Provides firsthand experience with defendants
D) Ignores legal system details
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