"Gov. Mike Rounds has the right idea but the wrong method of getting a Native American on the state Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Good for Rounds. It's appalling that a group so over-represented in the criminal justice system is so under-represented on the parole board - as well as in law enforcement and in the courts.

But mandating such an appointment in the law is wrong. We just as easily could mandate that the board include a crime victim or a successful parolee or a member of law enforcement or a psychiatrist or any other type of person who might seem appropriate. That would be just as wrong."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Appoint, not mandate (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 2/26)

Preliminary Report:
Justice In South Dakota: Does Race Make A Difference? (October 2002)

Related Stories:
Bill to add Indian to state parole board rejected (2/23)
Indian lawmaker introduces racial profiling bill (02/03)
Report to downplay race as factor in justice system (07/20)
Race study confirms disparity (10/28)
S.D. study shows disparity in justice (10/22)