Enhancing Campus Security at Historically Black Universities: A Focus on Edward Waters University

The issue of campus security has taken on a new urgency, particularly at institutions serving predominantly Black communities. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), such as Edward Waters University, have a unique challenge to address the prevalence of Black-on-Black violence and the subsequent need for robust security measures. This article explores the measures that can be implemented to enhance campus security at these institutions, providing a comprehensive strategy for safety and community protection.

A Contextual Look at Campus Security and Black-on-Black Violence

Black-on-Black violence has been a significant issue in the United States, and this has particular ramifications for safety on HBCUs. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice (DOJ) Uniform Crime Reports, the rates of Black-on-Black violence are notably higher compared to other racial groups. The data from 2010 to 2019 shows that Blacks murdered by Blacks range from 52 to 63 victims per million, significantly higher than the rate of Whites murdered by Whites, which is consistently around 11 to 12 victims per million.

Key Insights from Homicide Data

To better understand the implications of Black-on-Black violence, it is essential to look at several key points:

Whites murdered by Whites: Consistent at 11 to 12 victims per million over the past decade. Blacks murdered by Blacks: Consistent at 52 to 63 victims per million, more than 500 higher than Whites murdered by Whites. Whites murdered by Blacks: Average 1,200 higher than Blacks murdered by Whites.

These figures highlight the stark disparities in violent crimes between racial groups, with Black-on-Black violence being a persistent and concerning issue. It is worth noting that these statistics pertain to offenders, not all individuals within these racial groups. The Ku Klux Klan (KKK), a notorious hate group, lynched 3,446 Blacks during its existence, a figure significantly lower than the number of Blacks murdered at the hands of Blacks over the same timeframe.

Security Measures for HBCUs

To address these challenges, several security measures can be implemented to enhance the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff at HBCUs like Edward Waters University:

1. Campus Surveillance and Monitoring

Proactive surveillance through state-of-the-art camera systems can help deter potential threats. Implementing round-the-clock monitoring and response systems can provide quick intervention in case of emergencies.

2. Community Engagement and Collaboration

Engaging the local community and encouraging collaboration between campus security forces and local law enforcement can improve situational awareness and response times. Regular dialogues and community events can build trust and mutual understanding.

3. Mental Health Support and Counseling Services

Mental health is a significant factor in criminal behavior. Providing comprehensive mental health support and counseling services can help address underlying issues that may contribute to violent behavior. Early intervention and support can significantly reduce the risk of criminal incidents.

4. Training and Education Programs

Regular training and education programs for both faculty and students can help raise awareness of the issues and promote a culture of safety. Programs can include workshops on conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and community outreach.

5. Campus Policing and Security Personnel

Having dedicated and trained campus security personnel can provide a visible and reliable presence on campus. These personnel should be well-equipped and trained to handle a range of security concerns and respond to emergencies effectively.

Conclusion

The security challenges at historically Black universities are multifaceted, but with a comprehensive strategy, these institutions can improve their safety and create a secure environment for all students. By implementing robust security measures, fostering community engagement, and promoting mental health and education, HBCUs can better address the unique challenges posed by Black-on-Black violence and ensure the safety and well-being of their diverse student bodies.