What We Do

The African American Leadership and Policy Institute provides policy, advocacy, research, and community facilitation services. Our mission is to clarify and advocate policies that effectively respond to critical issues impacting the African American community.

Policy

The Institute’s unique approach generates new knowledge to solve problems and to make black neighborhoods thrive. Our research paradigm shifts the policy discussion from universal policy practices to policies that recognize the structures of “historical and contemporary discrimination” experienced by African Americans.

Advocacy

Our advocacy work will include advancing specific proposals for policy and practice change within government agencies, proposing legislation, and supporting the creation of new groups or organizations that can more effectively respond to institutional racism.

Research

We will serve as a resource for policymakers and civic leaders, particularly those who are African American, by providing accessible, critical information. We will use “action research,” quantitative and qualitative data-focused, research-rich analysis to recommend innovative courses of action to improve outcomes.

Facilitate and Convene

We will consistently convene community leaders and other key stakeholders to inform our community-based research and build community-level trust. We will discuss and review findings in community settings and solicit assistance in constructing solutions. This will in turn help us create a more informed black citizenry.