Brookings’ Center for Community Uplift (CCU) is an initiative that seeks to increase economic security and well-being for people across racial and geographic lines. Through innovative public policy research, CCU aims to dismantle discrimination, racism, and exclusion. Rather than focus on racial disparity, CCU’s research explores how diversity and inclusion can yield better outcomes for all by building upon the assets and strengths in cities and neighborhoods.
By working with scholars from across Brookings and engaging accomplished researchers, practitioners, and their networks to solve multidimensional public problems, CCU serves as a preeminent source for research and thought leadership on how public and private institutions can restructure policies to deliver equity and racial justice.
Directed by Senior Fellow Andre M. Perry, CCU’s impact model is built upon five foundational pillars:
- Research Innovation: Develop novel research methods and approaches to examine structural racism in the U.S.
- Asset Framing: Employ asset-based approaches that recognize the economic, social, and political strengths in specific geographic areas, empowering community voice and civic leadership.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: Establish partnerships with civic groups and other organizations that offer insights into the policy issues studied and can implement, amplify, and provide feedback on CCU’s research findings.
- Real-World Impact: Demonstrate practical value in the form of policy solutions at the federal, state, and local levels to policymakers, civic organizations, and practitioners in affected communities.
- Data Equity: Build the demand and capacity for greater disaggregation of data by race and place. Engage with underserved communities in the collection, use, and ownership of data.