A prominent black judge has revealed that they are routinely subjected to searches for weapons and prohibited items by security personnel when entering court buildings, despite their judicial status. The judge described the experience as humiliating and indicative of systemic racial bias within the justice system.
'I'm Treated Like a Suspect'
The judge, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their frustration over being frequently stopped and searched while white colleagues pass through security unchecked. "It's degrading to be treated like a suspect every time I enter my own workplace," they said. "This isn't just about me—it's about the message it sends to black professionals and the public."
Broader Implications for the Justice System
Legal experts have raised concerns that such incidents undermine confidence in the judiciary, particularly among minority communities. "If even judges are subject to racial profiling, what does that say about fairness in our courts?" asked one barrister.
The Ministry of Justice has stated that all security procedures are "applied consistently," but campaigners argue that unconscious bias training for court staff is urgently needed.
