What is racial profiling?

Racial profiling refers specifically to the practice of law enforcement and other authorities targeting individuals for suspicion of crime based solely on their race or ethnicity. This approach relies on stereotypes rather than evidence or behavior, leading to discriminatory practices that can harm communities and perpetuate social inequities.

Understanding this definition is crucial because it highlights the difference between racial profiling and other forms of profiling, such as based on socioeconomic status, appearance, or criminal history. Those practices might involve some level of legitimate investigation or reasoning based on observable behaviors or data but racial profiling is inherently biased, focusing on race or ethnicity rather than individual conduct or verified information. This distinction is essential for discussions around civil rights and effective community policing strategies.