Michael Leo Owens

Draws on original data, compiled by the authors, to examine police shootings, both fatal and non-fatal, in hundreds of American cities. Documents racial disparities in shooting incidents and shows that the media spotlight on the most shocking fatal shootings tell only part of the story of police gunfire in our cities.

Tells the story of how, after decades of struggle, Blacks control the city halls of many cities. Their challenges to retaining them in the 21st century are great.

Explains how urban political context affects women’s numerical representation in local government, and the political characteristics of local communities are consequential for predicting the presence of women as municipal policymakers.

Discusses the struggle that many of the wrongly-convicted people face in their quest to acquire compensation for unjust imprisonment along with aid for social reintegration.

Suggests that federal social welfare funding for faith-based organizations during the George W. Bush administration may have served a combination of purposes, including grants for both electoral purposes as well as help for meeting social needs.

Explores the question: why do some states take a punitive approach toward poor citizens using drugs, while others look for ways to reduce punitive responses to lawbreakers, including felons?

Provides a concise definition and brief history and contextual discussion of faith-based initiatives.

Draws on survey data and fieldwork to show how government grants to faith-based organizations have created a means for black clergy to reaffirm political leadership and enhance their moral authority in black civil society.