CAP applies a racial equity lens in developing and advancing policies that root out deeply entrenched systemic racism to ensure everyone has an opportunity to thrive.
People stand before a mural honoring people of peace in a Black district in Philadelphia on September 15, 2013. (Getty/Frédéric Soltan)
Closing the racial wealth gap and building an equitable economy
Centuries of government policies have systematically deprived communities of color of economic opportunity, leading to a persistent, growing racial wealth gap. CAP develops and advances policies to combat the root causes of the racial wealth gap and promote a more equitable, vibrant economy for all.
Supporting the Equitable and Just National Climate Platform
Long-standing racial and environmental injustices disproportionately expose communities of color to climate pollution. CAP develops and advocates for climate policies that ensure communities of color benefit from the transition to clean energy.
Eliminating racial disparities and strengthening health systems
Structural racism causes inequities in health systems and disparities in health outcomes. It also negatively affects numerous social determinants of health. CAP develops and furthers policies to reduce racial disparities in health and foster more accessible, affordable, and equitable health systems.
Promoting a representative, responsive, and inclusive democracy
Online disinformation and hate; white supremacist violence and rhetoric; and voter subversion and suppression undermine democracy and entrench systemic inequities. CAP develops policies to foster an effective, accountable, and representative democracy to meet the needs and improve the lives of all Americans.
By the numbers
$838K
The absolute dollar wealth gap between Black households and white households
CAP, “Eliminating the Black-White Gap Is a Generational Challenge” (2021).
75%
People of color’s exposure to fine particulate matter emitted by almost every fossil fuel source
Science Advances, “PM2.5 polluters disproportionately and systemically affect people of color in the United States” (2021).
4.1x
Hispanic or Latinos more likely to be hospitalized from COVID-19 than their white peers
CDC, “Risk for COVID-19 Infection, Hospitalization, and Death By Race/Ethnicity.”
4,939
Hate crimes in 2020 where a victim was targeted because of their race, ethnicity, or ancestry
Education Policies Need To Address the Unique Needs of Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities
The Center for American Progress is conducting new research that uplifts the lived experiences in public education of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. This research will advance CAP’s ongoing work to apply an explicit racial equity lens to K-12 education policymaking.
Religious Organizations Are Integral to the Fight Against Gun Violence
Religious organizations and people of faith across the country are working to heal their communities and prevent gun violence through support for broader reforms.
The United States Must Advance Economic Security for Disabled LGBTQI+ Workers
Data indicate that disabled LGBTQI+ workers experience higher rates of barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment, resulting in difficulties in obtaining economic security.
How the Government Can End Poverty for Native American Women
American Indian and Alaska Native women in the United States make just 60 cents for every dollar earned by their white male counterparts, and this wage gap forces too many of them and their families into poverty.
Social and Economic Policies Can Help Reverse Americans’ Declining Health
To meaningfully improve the health of Americans, new policies must target all of the drivers of health, including education, economic stability, neighborhoods and environments, social and community well-being, and historic inequities.
The SEC’s Regulatory Role in the Digital Asset Markets
As the markets for digital assets such as cryptocurrencies grow, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and other financial regulators must impose sensible regulations on digital assets to protect traders and investors.
How Weak Safety Net Policies Exacerbate Regional and Racial Inequality
While all low-income individuals and families, particularly those of color, struggle to avoid falling into poverty, some receive less support solely because of where they live.
