Rural communities are more dynamic and diverse than you might think. America’s history of colonization and oppression, as well as growth and expansion, has shaped the country’s rural areas and settlement patterns. Rural America is increasingly diversifying and is not a single monolithic culture. The notion of a white, rural idyll has certainly been the predominant message in the media, but rural communities of color are challenging these ideas.

Urbanormative approaches in research and politics have historically ignored rural residents, leaving them vulnerable to incomprehensive crime prevention and treatment policies. Inadequacies and lack of resources in rural criminal justice agencies impact access to justice for rural people, which may be exacerbated for marginalized populations. People of color in rural communities face the same challenges as their rural white counterparts, as well as unique challenges as a result of their marginalized status. Inaccurate and racist depictions of Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic or Latinx people often situate them as dangerous criminals. Prejudice that may be even more concentrated in traditional and predominantly white rural communities can make people of color feel unwelcome or unsafe.

A better understanding of rural America can help us address the needs of various populations in these communities, remove barriers to justice, and improve life for those living in non-urban spaces.

Licenses and Attributions for Conclusion

“Conclusion” by Jessica René Peterson is licensed under CC BY 4.0.