In Cleveland, Ohio, African American and Latino men, particularly those aged 12-26, face significant challenges with police encounters. East Cleveland and Cuyahoga County are areas with high concentrations of these demographics, and they have been disproportionately affected by police stops and searches1. For instance, Black individuals accounted for nearly 63% of police encounters in Cleveland, despite making up only 46% of the population. Additionally, Black people were searched three times more often than White individuals during these stops.
East Cleveland, with a population of 13,926, is predominantly African American, with 88% of its residents identifying as Black or African American. The median household income in East Cleveland is $23,004, which is significantly lower than the state average. These socioeconomic factors contribute to the heightened tension and distrust between the community and law enforcement.
GoVia Highlight a Hero can address these issues by providing a platform for transparency and accountability. By integrating technology that allows real-time video chats with attorneys and mental health professionals, young African American and Latino men can receive immediate support during police encounters. This not only ensures their rights are protected but also helps de-escalate potentially volatile situations. Additionally, the rating system can help gather valuable feedback from the community, leading to continuous improvement in police practices and fostering a more equitable and just environment for all residents.
