A Tale of Four Cities: The Limited Influence of Protest in Reforming Police Policies (2023)

Undergraduates: Lauren Brodeur, Anabell Diaz Amarante, Mia Neal, and Zoe Turner

Faculty Advisor: Neal Caren
Department: Sociology

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This study explores the complex relationship between protests against police brutality and policy reform in four major American cities: Detroit, Kansas City, Phoenix, and St. Louis. To better understand protests in each city, we analyzed data on the frequency and intensity of demonstrations and documented major local policy reforms and their causes. Using the "8 Can't Wait" policies as a baseline, we analyzed how willing cities are to implement new policies. Our study illustrates the complex relationship between protests and police reform and the factors influencing policy change. We aim to contribute to the ongoing national debate on police reform nationwide.

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