The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the topic of government policy in criminal justice. Specifically it will answer the question: If we are interested in obtaining a "blind" society regarding human rights, why do we insist on asking a person's race, ethnicity, religion, sex and marital status on private and governmental forms. Should we? Why or why not? If we are indeed a society that is "blind" to the melting pot of races that settle our nation, then why indeed is it necessary to fill out our gender, race, and marital status on just about any form, survey, or government document we sign? America is not a blind society at all. Racial tensions have existed in this country from the first. In fact, American has a foundation in racial segregation and racism - first with the Native Americans, who we robbed of their land and consistently pushed West, and second with the African Americans, (and indentured servants) that the country imported by the thousands to do the dirty work of the farms and the factories. America has never been a blind society, and never will.

             Many Americans hope that someday American society can resist the urge to compartmentalize the citizens, and simply recognize each of us as Americans who live and work together. However, there has always been a need by the government and other data collectors to know what race, gender, marital status, and religious beliefs each American carries around with them. Some of this data is certainly important in understanding the dynamics of the nation and how it affects governmental programs, shifting age differences, and other important considerations for future programs and generations. .

             However, much of the data seems superfluous and unnecessary, and it is exceedingly irritating to be asked such personal questions during simple surveys, or simple actions such as buying a car or a house. Some of this data is necessary, but much of it simply seems intrusive and prying when it occurs with such frequency.