Race and Representation in Nova Scotia’s Criminal Justice System: Analyzing the Experiences of People of African Descent in the Province’s Courts and Correctional Facilities

This research project will contribute to the literature on Canada’s criminal justice system by using de-identified race-based data from Nova Scotia’s Department of Justice to understand Black people’s experiences in the province’s correctional facilities. It addresses two main problems: Gaps in knowledge about Black people’s experiences in provincial correctional facilities, and the need to improve correctional practices in Nova Scotia. Alongside filling important gaps in race-based data, this project will also contribute to improvements in correctional practices in Nova Scotia by engaging with formerly incarcerated individuals to understand their experiences and needs while incarcerated, and their reintegration needs once they have left prison.

The purpose of this research project is to understand Black people’s experiences in Nova Scotia’s provincial correctional facilities, to facilitate advocacy efforts and contribute to the literature on race-based data. In this research project, data from Nova Scotia’s Department of Justice (DOJ) on Black people’s experiences within provincial correctional facilities will be analyzed to identify any systemic or persistent differences in treatment or outcomes, in comparison to other racial groups. In addition, building on the quantitative findings, the project will undertake qualitative research that will involve interviewing Black people who have been incarcerated within provincial correctional facilities to determine whether the findings reflect their experiences, and to better understand the services and supports they need to better reintegrate into their communities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chris Giacomantonio

Student:

Partner:

African Nova Scotian Justice Institute

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: