Beyond Violence Empowering Black Youth Autonomy - Alyssa Mileham

In this compelling work, the author delves into the profound impact of pervasive police brutality on young Black individuals, contributing significantly to the existing literature on this critical issue. Through a meticulous exploration, the book investigates the intricate relationship between police violence and its influence on the bodily autonomy of Black youth, considering factors such as gender, gender identity, and sexuality.

Guided by the lenses of Afro-Pessimism and Intersectionality, the author unveils a pervasive culture of police violence that distinctly shapes the bodily autonomy of young Black people. This influence is dissected with sensitivity to the nuances of gender, gender identity, and sexuality, reflecting a historical continuum of policing Black bodies. The narrative passionately advocates for structural changes in policing, envisioning a future where young Black individuals can fully self-autonomize and self-actualize, asserting their inherent humanity and the independent significance of their lives.