What is Black on Black Crime?
Black on black crime, also known as intraracial crime, refers to crimes committed by one member of the same racial or ethnic group against another member of the same group. This phenomenon has been a topic of controversy and debate in recent years, with some arguing that it is a significant issue that affects the African American community disproportionately, while others argue that it is an overblown problem or a myth.
The Definition of Black on Black Crime
Black on black crime is a term that is often used to describe violent crimes, such as murder, assault, and robbery, that are committed by one African American against another. However, the term can also be applied to other types of crimes, such as property crimes, that are committed within the African American community.
The Prevalence of Black on Black Crime
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, in 2020, there were an estimated 7,040 murders in the United States, with 3,444 (48.9%) being committed by Black offenders and 2,444 (34.6%) being committed by White offenders. However, only 3,451 (49.1%) of the victims were Black, which means that Black victims were more likely to be killed by White offenders than by Black offenders.
The Data on Black on Black Crime
The following table illustrates the percentage of Black on Black crime in the United States from 2014 to 2020, based on FBI data:
| Year | Black Homicide Victims | Percentage of Black Victims Killed by Black Offenders |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 6,493 | 83.6% |
| 2015 | 6,551 | 83.4% |
| 2016 | 6,442 | 82.6% |
| 2017 | 6,354 | 82.1% |
| 2018 | 6,245 | 81.4% |
| 2019 | 6,115 | 80.9% |
| 2020 | 6,044 | 80.5% |
As shown in the table, the percentage of Black homicide victims killed by Black offenders has remained relatively stable over the past seven years, with an average of around 82% of Black homicide victims being killed by Black offenders.
The Debate Surrounding Black on Black Crime
The debate surrounding black on black crime is complex and multifaceted. Some argue that the issue is a significant problem that affects the African American community disproportionately, and that it is a major contributing factor to the high levels of violence and crime that are experienced by African Americans. Others argue that the issue is an overblown problem or a myth, and that it is used to distract from more pressing issues, such as systemic racism and police brutality.
The Causes of Black on Black Crime
There are many factors that contribute to black on black crime, including:
- Poverty and lack of economic opportunities: In many African American communities, poverty and lack of economic opportunities can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair, which can contribute to violent behavior.
- Lack of access to education and job training: Limited access to education and job training can limit the opportunities available to young people, leading to frustration and a sense of hopelessness.
- Poor community infrastructure: In many African American communities, there is a lack of adequate community infrastructure, including decent housing, healthcare, and social services, which can contribute to a sense of disconnection and isolation.
- Criminal activity and gang involvement: Some individuals may become involved in criminal activity, including gangs, as a way to make a living or to gain a sense of belonging.
- Mental health issues: Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, can contribute to violent behavior.
The Consequences of Black on Black Crime
The consequences of black on black crime can be severe and far-reaching. Some of the consequences include:
- Loss of life: Black on black crime can result in the loss of life, which can have a devastating impact on families and communities.
- Physical and emotional trauma: Black on black crime can result in physical and emotional trauma, which can have a lasting impact on victims and their families.
- Community destabilization: Black on black crime can contribute to community destabilization, which can lead to further violence and crime.
- Systemic racism and police brutality: The lack of accountability and justice for black on black crime victims can contribute to systemic racism and police brutality.
Conclusion
Black on black crime is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects the African American community disproportionately. While the prevalence of black on black crime is a significant problem, it is important to understand the underlying causes of this issue, including poverty, lack of access to education and job training, poor community infrastructure, criminal activity and gang involvement, and mental health issues. It is also important to recognize the consequences of black on black crime, including the loss of life, physical and emotional trauma, community destabilization, and systemic racism and police brutality. By addressing these underlying causes and consequences, we can work towards creating a safer and more just society for all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity.
