Race plays an essential role in Michael Vick’s case. Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison, of which he served 18 months. Once released Vick was under house arrest and required to speak at several events about the consequences of dogfighting. Furthermore, Vick was ordered to pay nearly $1 million in restitution for the dogs recovered at the fighting ring. Additionally, in order to rejoin the NFL, Vick was required to take a transition program and was issued a mentor. Although Vick faced many steps to reinstatement into the NFL, many Whites believe his punishment was not harsh enough. According to the current study, Whites viewed Vick’s punishment as being “too soft” and “just right”. Nevertheless, White participants were less likely to
…show more content…
Institutionalized racism refers to the racial hierarchy within institutions. These institutions include the criminal justice system, educational systems, government, etc. Furthermore, institutions such as the NFL has created a set of systems that allow for the promotion of racial hierarchies. Ben Roethlisberger was accused of rape on two occasions, after which the NFL took a very lenient stance. Originally, the NFL took no action after the first accusation was settled. After the second accusation, Roethlisberger was suspended for 6 games, which was later reduced to a 4-game suspension. The difference in action between Vick and Roethlisberger depicts one way in which individuals of color are at a disadvantage. One can assume that the actions the NFL took against Michael Vick were influenced by his race. Furthermore, the actions of the NFL reflect a covert form of racism. Although their actions against Vick was not overtly racist, their actions still have a racist …show more content…
An average individual who commits a crime such as the one Vick committed faces resistance from his/her community. The individual faces the resistance when trying to re-enter into society. In order for former criminals to successfully re-enter the community, there has to be a change in the community’s perception. A lack of a successful re-entry process leads to 66% of offenders re-offending. Ultimately, Vick’s celebrity status allows him to better adjust to life outside of prison. Although he faces a tainted public perception, Vick was still able to successful re-enter society. Unlike the average individual, Vick’s celebrity status allowed him to re-enter
Institutionalized racism refers to the racial hierarchy within institutions. These institutions include the criminal justice system, educational systems, government, etc. Furthermore, institutions such as the NFL has created a set of systems that allow for the promotion of racial hierarchies. Ben Roethlisberger was accused of rape on two occasions, after which the NFL took a very lenient stance. Originally, the NFL took no action after the first accusation was settled. After the second accusation, Roethlisberger was suspended for 6 games, which was later reduced to a 4-game suspension. The difference in action between Vick and Roethlisberger depicts one way in which individuals of color are at a disadvantage. One can assume that the actions the NFL took against Michael Vick were influenced by his race. Furthermore, the actions of the NFL reflect a covert form of racism. Although their actions against Vick was not overtly racist, their actions still have a racist …show more content…
An average individual who commits a crime such as the one Vick committed faces resistance from his/her community. The individual faces the resistance when trying to re-enter into society. In order for former criminals to successfully re-enter the community, there has to be a change in the community’s perception. A lack of a successful re-entry process leads to 66% of offenders re-offending. Ultimately, Vick’s celebrity status allows him to better adjust to life outside of prison. Although he faces a tainted public perception, Vick was still able to successful re-enter society. Unlike the average individual, Vick’s celebrity status allowed him to re-enter