Our Programs

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Reforming the criminal justice system is a top organizational priority. We advocate for sentencing reform and "second chance" laws to remedy unduly long punishments for nonviolent crimes. We also push to revise pretrial systems that disproportionately affect those who are impoverished. Furthering our goals, we engage in sustained advocacy calling for greater fairness and transparency at all levels. By these efforts, we strive to establish true equal treatment under the law for all people.

The Police Accountability program ensures adequate oversight and consequences for police misconduct. We support victims of excessive force and push for thorough, transparent investigations into abusive incidents. A priority is implementing stronger legal protections that guard against racial profiling and discourage brutality. By advocating for victims' rights and accountability, our goal is to establish fair, respectful policing for all communities.

The Crisis Intake and Victim Assistance program provides critical support to communities in their hour of need. When incidents of excessive police force or misconduct occur, our advocates rapidly respond to ensure victims' basic rights and safety. We work to de-escalate tensions while also gathering facts about what transpired to seek accountability and justice. By guiding victims through legal processes with empathy and care, we aim to lessen trauma and help healing begin.

Our Voting Rights program works to protect every citizen's fundamental right to have their voice heard at the ballot box. We advocate for expansion of voter registration opportunities and fight laws that place unnecessary barriers to participation. Through voter education, transportation assistance, and poll monitoring, we champion inclusive, transparent election processes. By empowering communities to make their votes count, we advance democracy and the dream of equal representation for all Americans.

The Corporate Responsibility and Pension Diversity program holds companies accountable to fair labor practices and social justice commitments. We push corporations and shareholders to embrace diversity in leadership and contracting. The program also advocates for including minority-owned asset managers in pension funds to close economic gaps. By promoting equitable treatment and opportunities, we work to leverage business influence for societal good.

The Youth Leadership program cultivates the next generation of progressive leaders through hands-on apprenticeships and mentoring. Young people gain civic engagement skills while assisting with campaigns and initiatives. Experienced NAN members provide guidance and support to help apprentices develop confidence and a passion for social change. By empowering youth to use their voices, the program advances social justice through informed, active community participation.

The Community Funding Oversight program monitors how federal, state, and local dollars are awarded and spent within our neighborhoods. We review contracts and expenditures of nonprofit groups, government agencies, and other public institutions to ensure resources are directed equitably. Through public oversight, we aim to guarantee marginalized communities receive adequate, unbiased services. By shedding light on funding practices, our goal is to advance distribution justice and accountability across social services systems.

The Building the Digital Divide program works to expand internet access and technology literacy in underserved communities. We push for greater affordability and public access to close the connectivity gaps faced by many. Workshops and training help community members unlock economic and educational opportunities online. By strengthening digital inclusion, our aim is to empower residents with 21st century skills and level the playing field in today's technology-driven world.

The Health Equity program advocates to eliminate systemic inequities in healthcare outcomes and access. We campaign for expanded Medicaid access, fair treatment of minority patients, and adequate resources in underfunded communities. By raising awareness of persistent disparities, our goal is to guarantee everyone can achieve their highest standard of well-being, free from bias. Through policy reform and community empowerment, this program works to establish healthcare as a fundamental right for all.

The Small Minority Business Support program champions local entrepreneurship as an economic justice issue. We provide networking, advocacy training, and connections to contracting opportunities to help minority-owned small businesses thrive. By addressing barriers to accessing capital and markets, our goal is to cultivate the next generation of diverse community leaders and job-creators. Through this program, NAN strives to support equitable small business growth and close disparities in wealth and ownership.

The Political Training and Development program seeks to recruit and advance potential public leaders through nonpartisan civic engagement efforts. Workshops educate community members on policy issues and build campaign skills. Mentorship helps emerging candidates strengthen their platforms and coalitions. By cultivating a new generation of diverse local and state representatives, our goal is to ensure government better reflects the people it serves at all levels.