Part of EPU’s threefold mission is to highlight and change narratives that perpetuate systemic and interpersonal racism in order to shift people’s attitudes and behaviors. Because it is often uncomfortable or difficult for many people to openly and honestly discuss the impacts of racist systems and actions, too many people lack an understanding of the scale of racism in America. People must be able to talk productively about the issues facing our communities in order to create change. Simply put, you cannot change what you do not acknowledge.
EPU does this by empowering storytelling that highlights the impacts of racial inequities in our institutions; not to place blame, but to provide a fuller context needed to ensure that our full and accurate racial history is told. At the same time, we will amplify stories that showcase the strength of our diversity, our shared common ground, and the value of ultimately fulfilling the promise of America. Through our narrative work, we strive to create opportunities for discussion on the lasting impact of our nation’s complicated history, people, and institutions, that can ultimately move us forward in our pursuit of prosperity for all.