Explain how unreliable data collection affects treatment of Latinos, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans in the U.S. justice system.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

It is difficult to fix (or even understand) a problem if you do not know how widespread it is. Data collection methods for these groups are not as accurate as data collection for African Americans and Whites. These three minority groups are most likely getting shortchanged on resources within the justice system.
Depending on the source, Latinos may be classified as Hispanics, a term that can cover any racial group. Most prisons have few resources for Spanish-speaking prisoners, which means those prisoners' chances for education or rehabilitation are slim.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are often counted as one group even though they vary widely and have different skills and needs. Although the stereotype is that API are a "model minority," a Chinese American whose family has been in this country for many generations most likely has different needs than a refugee from Laos or Vietnam does.
Information on Native Americans arrested and incarcerated within tribal territories is often inaccurate because each tribal group has its own system of collecting information. Therefore, it is currently impossible to know how many Native Americans are incarcerated and what people could do to help them.