EQUITY IN POLICY INSTITUTE
The Equity in Policy Institute is a national training initiative that engages with community leaders, policy makers and scholars to co-create policy strategies for healing and social change. Our mission is to democratize knowledge for policy change by equipping local champions, academic researchers, and community partners with the tools to shape policies through decolonized and racial justice approaches. Too often, policymaking happens in the confines of power, privilege, and intellectual colonialism, where the voices, lived experiences, and community data of marginalized groups are silenced. The Institute works to shift that balance.
What We Do
- Immersive Training: A 3-day program with 9 interactive modules that blend policy analysis, racial justice frameworks, and real-world application.
- Ongoing Support: Continued technical assistance for participants, ensuring that skills translate into practice.
- Policy Dialogues: A culminating half-day session where community voices and evidence converge to spark new, equitable policy pathways.
Why It Matters
The Institute fosters:
- Stronger good governance and democracy through inclusive policymaking.
- Increased engagement of those most impacted by policies.
Creation of community-driven solutions that address structural inequities and promote health equity.
Our Impact
In its first year alone, the Institute brought together 12 community–academic teams representing 75+ partners (the majority people of color). Their work produced equity policy briefs and digital policy stories on issues including:
- Closing the digital divide in border communities
- Grandparents raising grandchildren in Northern NM
- Tribal Health-in-All Policies
- Broadband access as a determinant of LGBTQ health
- Equity for people living with disabilities
- HIV/AIDS prevention for youth
Together, these collaborations demonstrate a practical model for democratizing knowledge to advance racial justice and social change.
About the Institute
Founded by Dr. Lisa Cacari Stone, the Equity in Policy Institute builds capacity among community leaders, researchers, and policymakers to analyze and shape policies grounded in equity, engagement, and evidence.
Training & Approach
The Institute provides hands-on training in policy analysis, storytelling, and civic engagement. Sessions are designed to:
- Equip participants with tools to evaluate policies through an equity lens.
- Foster collaborations between communities and decision-makers.
- Amplify diverse voices through digital storytelling and policy briefs.
Team
The Institute’s faculty and affiliates include experienced leaders alongside a multidisciplinary team of designers, scholars, and community leaders. Learn more about our team.
Policy Briefs
Policy Briefs: Evidence-based recommendations for advancing equity in behavioral health, housing, education, and more.
Learn more about Policy Briefs.
Digital Stories
Digital Stories: Community-driven narratives that bring lived experiences into policymaking.
Learn more about Equity Policy Lab.