"Equity through Learning to Listen" by Katherine J. Cramer

Home > JPD > Vol. 12 (2016) > Iss. 2

Article Title

Equity through Learning to Listen: The Case of Public Discussion on Body-Worn Cameras in Madison, Wisconsin

Authors

Katherine J. Cramer, University of Wisconsin-MadisonFollow

Author Biography

Katherine Cramer is Director of the Morgridge Center for Public Service and Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Abstract

This article analyzes practitioners’ attempt to achieve equity in a public input process on a local racial justice issue: whether or not the police department should implement body-worn video cameras. The insights of the two practitioners who led the public input process reveal 4 main lessons. First, equity in public deliberation is achieved sometimes by intentionally excluding some voices. Second, members of marginalized groups are motivated at times by the potential to be heard. Third, the case suggests that for some people public talk is not about achieving democracy; it is instead about life and survival. Finally, the case suggests that in order for deliberation to contribute to greater equity in democracy, people in power need to learn to listen to previously marginalized voices.

Recommended Citation

Cramer, Katherine J. (2016) "Equity through Learning to Listen: The Case of Public Discussion on Body-Worn Cameras in Madison, Wisconsin," Journal of Public Deliberation: Vol. 12 : Iss. 2 , Article 10.
Available at: https://www.publicdeliberation.net/jpd/vol12/iss2/art10

Download

Included in

American Politics Commons, Civic and Community Engagement Commons, Community-Based Research Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Politics and Social Change Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons

COinS