Reply to this post:

There were many significant points made throughout the article that emphasized the importance in understanding the reasoning and meaning behind crimes of resistance. One of these points includes the difference with mainstream ideals and ideals within many communities and how these differences can be a set back for many individuals, especially those who are a part of marginalized groups. This relates to the concept of misrecognition, which was newly introduced to me in the article. In addition, I was able to learn about resistance identities, which is a response to oppression, especially oppression by a system that criminalizes individuals. I believe that resistance identities can be connected to the criminology theory known as the labeling theory, which states that the label society gives an individual impacts the way in which they behave. 

Something I found most interesting while reading the article was the difference in the interaction between Ronny and the manager and the manager and the next interviewee, who was white. It is evident that the manager overlooked qualities that Ronny may have because she was being biased. It wouldn’t be surprising to know how often this happens to people today, playing into the opportunities that many are deprived of. In addition, it is interesting and unfortunate to see how people from marginalized groups are aware that they must be cautious of their behavior in certain situations because of how others may perceive them. For example, when the young man in the article known as Flaco was at the store. In connection, it is common for black people to be extra cautious with their behavior when in the presence of police officers, in fear that they are likely to be viewed as a threat, all things that privileged groups of people don’t have to worry about.

The discussion of crimes of resistance leading to more punishment reminded me of when I learned about the flaws in punitive justice and how it is a never ending cycle that is not as successful in deterring crime and rehabilitating offenders as it should be. In addition, the lack of opportunity given to Ronny when he tried to get a legit job reminded me of a sociology theory known as the strain theory. This theory emphasizes the idea that society tends to pressure individuals to obtain a certain lifestyle, known as the American Dream, even with a lack of resources to do so. It is unfortunate to see that when one fails to meet such expectations they are judged by the same society that deprived them of the opportunities and resources.