I don't even talk about whether or not racial profiling is legal. I just don't think racial profiling is a particularly good law enforcement tool.

Eric Holder’s quote emphasizes his stance against racial profiling, not just from a legal perspective, but also from a practical standpoint. While he acknowledges that the legal status of racial profiling may be a topic of debate, Holder asserts that the practice is not an effective law enforcement tool. This reflects his belief that relying on racial profiling undermines the integrity of law enforcement and is counterproductive to effective policing.

Holder's statement suggests that racial profiling is not just a moral or ethical issue, but a practical one as well. By stating that it is not a "particularly good" tool, he implies that it leads to inefficiency and bias, and may even alienate communities, making it harder for police to gain trust and cooperation. The emphasis is on the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies and the idea that prejudices or assumptions based on race do not lead to better policing outcomes.

The quote also reflects Holder’s broader views on police reform and the need for justice within the criminal justice system. He advocates for policies and approaches that are based on fairness, accountability, and evidence-based practices, rather than tactics that might perpetuate discrimination. This also touches on the need for community relations and trust between law enforcement and the public, which racial profiling can undermine.

The origin of this quote comes from Eric Holder, the former Attorney General of the United States, known for his advocacy on issues such as civil rights, criminal justice reform, and police accountability. His statement on racial profiling is consistent with his long-standing commitment to reforming law enforcement practices and promoting a fairer, more equitable justice system.