A Recent Article by Eugene Robinson, Article Review Example

Dear Editor:

In a recent article by Eugene Robinson, your paper discussed the unequal statistics associated with police pulling over people of different racial or ethnic backgrounds.  The specifically alarming statistics stated that whites were more likely to receive written or verbal warnings than minorities, while whites were the least likely of any group to receive a search of their person or car while pulled over.

Although many people believe that racial bias and profiling is no longer an issue, it is clear that it definitely is.  I know several “minority” friends that have been pulled over for absolutely no reason.  Police officers find any excuse to pull someone of color over and search them or their cars.  Even one of my past professors from college was pulled over.  He was not speeding, had nothing wrong with his vehicle and the police officer had no reason to pull him over except for the fact that he was not white.  If an academic professional can become a victim, then no one is safe from the stereotypes and profiling.

The author may not be entirely correct.  The study that the author bases his information on was performed in 2005.  It is hard to imagine that a lot has changed in four years, but it is definitely possible.  More current, up-to-date information should have been used to help back up his statements.  In addition to this, the author neglected to interview any judicial personnel to help justify the article from an opposing perspective.  The author did very little to help substantiate his article, and even though I know that this behavior does exist, most of it was based on Robinson’s own personal opinions instead of hard, up-to-date evidence.

Please consider these things when you decide to publish additional information.  Our police officers are always under much criticism, but many of these individuals do everything they can to protect our way of living.  Still, everything should be done to help avoid future stereotypical biases and the use of racial profiling.  Although whites and minorities are pulled over equally, the actions taken are not equal and this is what must be changed.

Sincerely,

Author’s Name