This thesis critically examines the phenomenon of racial gaslighting within the context of community policing, focusing on its ethical and epistemological consequences for marginalized communities. Racial gaslighting—a process by which law enforcement and broader institutions invalidate or distort the lived experiences of racialized individuals—plays a pivotal role in undermining the trust and effectiveness of community policing models. By drawing on Miranda Fricker’s theory of hermeneutical injustice and Charles Mills’ analysis of racial epistemologies, the research explores how systemic denial of racial bias contributes to the erosion of public trust, the silencing of marginalized voices, and the perpetuation of inequality in policing practices. Through historical analysis, contemporary case studies (e.g., Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, and Breonna Taylor), and philosophical reflection, the thesis demonstrates how racial gaslighting not only impedes police accountability but also obstructs the interpretive resources necessary for communities to name and resist their oppression. Ultimately, this project calls for a transformation of community policing through epistemic justice, ethical accountability, and restorative practices that center the lived realities of those most impacted by systemic violence. By integrating theoretical insights with practical reform recommendations, this work seeks to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive vision of public safety.
↧
