The AIR Equity Initiative: A Bridge to a More Equitable World

Our new essay series, Integration and Equity 2.0, weaves a tapestry of diverse voices, delivering insights and evidence for all who aspire to build a better and more equitable future for our nation’s young people.

Since its founding in 1946, the American Institutes for Research® (AIR) has conducted rigorous research and used evidence to address complex social issues and improve the lives of people, both in the U.S. and across the globe. The AIR Equity Initiative is predicated on these same principles and strengthens AIR’s commitment by investing in the generation and use of high-quality evidence to address the harmful effects of inequality.

Learn more about this landmark commitment.
 

 

Our Work: Strategies for Advancing Equity

Equity is about fairness and taking deliberate actions to remove barriers and promote opportunities to ensure that people and communities get what they need to thrive. We are advancing equity by funding new or under-resourced efforts within and across our program areas to improve educational experiences, enhance justice in public safety and policing, strengthen economic mobility, and improve health outcomes for underserved communities.

At the core of this work, we fund and foster partnerships with those who are directly affected by the inequities we seek to address and those who influence and drive decision-making. Our work incorporates diverse perspectives, experiences, and areas of expertise to shape approaches and solutions that are responsive to the communities we serve.

Our Program Areas

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EL teacher and student

Improving educational experiences

...because policies, practices, and systems should promote student thriving and success, no matter where they live or where they look like.

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Group of apprentices laughing

Strengthening evidence-based workforce training

…because economic mobility and prosperity should be accessible for all.

 

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Policewoman laughing with children

Enhancing public safety

…because justice can only be realized when all people are treated with dignity.

Our Integrated Approach

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Diverse group of colleagues

Increasing and integrating diverse perspectives

…because diverse perspectives and voices strengthen the quality and relevance of research, evaluation, and technical assistance for communities.

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Diverse community meeting

Engaging communities and building relationships

…because relevant solutions can be identified, shared, and implemented when connection and reciprocity exist.
Contact
Rashawn Ray headshot
Vice President and Executive Director of the AIR Equity Initiative