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Guyana, a small country in South America, has a long and complicated history when it comes to policing. As far back as 1839, the police force in Guyana was established with the aim of maintaining control over newly freed Africans. This led to the institutionalization of biased and oppressive policing from its very inception.
Today, despite changes in the structure, role, and function of the police force, the legacy of colonial-era policing continues to influence the nature of policing in Guyana. One of the most significant problems is the perception of black men as criminals and thugs. This perception leads to the targeting and mistreatment of black men by police officers and magistrates. Poor, dark-skinned men are the most heavily profiled, with those with dreadlocks being especially vulnerable. Many of these men are intimidated, lack knowledge of the law, and are dumped into the prison system via remand. This bias targeting certain groups of people has led to the criminalization of innocent individuals and groups.
This legacy of colonial-era policing has persisted until contemporary times, resulting in police brutality and violence against certain groups of people. The police force had the support and approval of the political elite during a period of retaliation killings in the early to mid-2000s. This highlights the complicity of those in power in perpetuating a system of oppression and bias.
Despite the grim reality of policing in Guyana, hope is not lost. There are individuals, organizations, and movements working tirelessly to bring about change. One such movement is the Black Lives Matter movement, which has gained traction not only in the United States but around the world. I am in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, and although history informs us that revolutions are often violent and destructive, they can often lead to a more enlightened and just social contract.
The nature of policing in Guyana is in need of significant reform, with a focus on addressing bias, discrimination, and violence against marginalized groups of people. The police force should work towards building trust and legitimacy among all members of society, including those who have historically been marginalized and criminalized. Only then can the police be seen as a force for good and justice in the country.
