October 30, 2003

Racial profiling symposium looks at post 9-11 policies, legislation

Northwestern’s Center for Public Safety and the Police Executive Research Forum will examine post 9-11 policies and legislation during the Third National Symposium on Racial Profiling Nov. 3-5 at the Westin Hotel O’Hare, Rosemont.

During the past two years, 20 states have passed racial profiling prevention laws. These laws require agencies to change or create new policies and procedures. At the same time, the public’s opinion on the issue has changed to reflect its increasing fear of terrorist threats. The law enforcement community continues to look for a balance between securing communities and protecting the rights of citizens.

In the keynote address at 9 a.m. Monday (Nov. 3), David A. Harris, the Balk Professor of Law and Values at the University of Toledo, will discuss the public mind shift and what agencies have to gain by dealing with the issue, even in the fight against terror.

Harris’s book, “Profiles in Injustice,” analyzes arrest statistics, examines the effect of 9-11 on public perception, and recommends solutions.

The distinguished group of speakers includes police professionals, community leaders, security experts, legal scholars, and researchers. They will focus on new legislation, policies, procedures and training from a national and local perspective.

For more information, visit www.northwestern.edu/nucps.