Cal State Fullerton senior Domonique Beck is working on her first research project that addresses prison abolition to inform her work as a future criminal defense attorney.
Beck chose her research topic based on her internship work last summer for the California Innocence Project and gained perspectives on prison abolition from people who see injustices firsthand. She learned about wrongful convictions, reforms and policy initiatives in the criminal justice system.
Through her research project, Beck aims to bridge the gap between the meaning of abolition and a better understanding of abolitionist practices.
“I’m researching the history of abolition and activism, which began as a revolt against slavery,” said Beck, a double major in criminal justice and African American studies and a first-generation college student. “Today, it has developed as an effort to abolish prisons since they have direct roots to slavery, with some considering it present-day slavery.”
Beck, an intern for San Diego’s Office of the Public Defender this summer, added that her research aims to bring awareness about abolition.
“Abolition has become a weaponized term because there is a lack of research and understanding, even by professionals in the criminal justice system. It starts with them,” she said.
“I hope my research will bring to light the importance of abolition and what approaches we can take to create a better world for everyone.”
Beck is among 18 students in the new Bolstering Black Undergraduate Student Creative Activities and Research program, supported by the Scott Jewett Fund for Innovation and Student Success.
The program focuses on increasing Black undergraduate students’ participation in research and creative activities in welcoming, inclusive and supportive ways, said program director Terri Patchen, professor of elementary and bilingual education.
“The goal is to support Black undergraduate students’ identities as scholars through knowledge creation and institutional recognition,” Patchen said.
Students, called fellows, are paired with Black faculty mentors aligned with their academic and professional goals and committed to their success, Patchen said.
Through their participation, students learn about research practices and presentation skills. During a summer conference on campus, fellows presented their projects.
Siobhan Brooks, chair and professor of African American studies and Beck’s research adviser, said the program is vital to students’ academic and professional development, including preparation for graduate school and career opportunities.
“In this new program, Black undergraduate students get the mentorship they need and are exposed to research being done by Black faculty,” Brooks said. “These opportunities are important because they are connected to networking, which helps Black students with academic goals while in school and career goals once they graduate.”
Beck has sharpened her critical thinking skills through her research efforts, which will also help her as a future attorney. She shared that Brooks has given her different perspectives and angles to approach her study.
“Conducting this research has allowed me to contribute to people’s knowledge and understanding of important topics to drive social justice and change,” she said.
Beck aspires to attend law school and land a position as a public defender to challenge oppressive systems and make a difference in the criminal justice system.
“I’ve always wanted to be the person who fights for the underdog — and changes people’s lives.”