As individuals interested in learning more about racial equity, you’ve likely heard of the term “school-to-prison pipeline,” (if you haven’t check out this infographic made by the ACLU). Most notably this term is tied to the systems that funnel African American boys out of school and into prison at alarming rates. Today we will learn more about how school disciplinary policies disproportionately affect Black students including Black girls. Stereotypes and misperceptions, which view Black girls as older, more mature and more aggressive have led to a lesser-discussed trend, the adultification of Black girls. 

According to the Westchester Children’s Association in Westchester County, Black children represent only 14% of the total student population but make up 42% of the suspended students. They also found that Black youth make up 62% of juvenile detentions. https://wca4kids.org/blog-highlights/suspension-data-racial-discipline-gap/