Imagine being 14 years old, innocently playing with a toy gun, and suddenly finding yourself in a potentially deadly encounter with law enforcement. This week on Blind Intelligence, I'm Miss Ronnie, and I invite you to listen to the profound personal stories of DJ Thinking 808 from Houston and rapper King Cooper from Memphis as they share their intense and eye-opening experiences with police during their youth. These narratives reveal the stark realities of racial bias and early police encounters that haunt many Black men. We delve into the systemic issues underscored by statistics from the National Juvenile Justice Network, highlighting the urgent need for reform in how youth of color are treated within the judicial process.

Navigating conversations about police violence within Black communities is complex and emotionally charged. We offer guidance on how parents can approach these difficult discussions with their children, from teaching young kids about the role of police to talking with teenagers about racial injustice and implicit bias. Deborah Davis joins us to share her unsettling story as a mother grappling with distrust towards law enforcement after her teenage son was approached without her consent, adding another layer to this multifaceted issue. Tune in for an episode that aims to foster understanding and provide practical advice on addressing these crucial topics with the next generation.

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