Racial Equity Research Briefs

What is a racial equity research brief?

As the Council Office of Racial Equity (CORE), our mandate is to answer the central question: “If this bill passes, how will it impact Black residents, Indigenous residents, and residents of color in the District of Columbia?” We answer this question using our Racial Equity Impact Assessments (REIAs).

However, the racial equity implications that we explore occasionally fall outside the bounds of a bill—or transcend across multiple bills. To explore these themes with greater depth and breadth, CORE has developed a series of research and policy briefs that explore the intersection of race, racism, and the policy issue areas of our work. These briefs are intended to highlight the historical context, racially inequitable impacts or outcomes, and policy considerations of these thematic areas. The briefs provide a foundation of research to inform residents, Council, and future REIAs.

Each brief highlights existing research, REIAs, District legislation, and the work of other jurisdictions. As you read, we ask that you use these briefs as a starting point for your own exploration.