Welcome to our report, “Positive Trends and Potential Challenges for African Americans in Indianapolis.”

This comprehensive analysis highlights the progress being made within the African American community in Indianapolis, while also addressing the ongoing challenges that require attention. Through this report, we aim to provide a balanced perspective on the strides achieved and the areas that need further support and resources.

Download the Report 

Research by Pillar

Explore the in-depth research behind the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI), which focuses on six key pillars essential for the well-being of Black residents in Indianapolis:

  • Business and Entrepreneurship: Learn about the strategies and support systems designed to foster economic growth and success within the African American community.
  • Education: Discover the educational initiatives aimed at enhancing academic achievement and opportunities for African American students.
  • Employment: Understand the efforts to improve employment rates and career advancement for African Americans in Indianapolis.
  • Health and Wellness: Dive into the health programs and services addressing the unique challenges faced by the African American community.
  • Housing and Homeownership: Explore the initiatives promoting stable and affordable housing and increasing homeownership among African Americans.
  • Leadership and Civic Engagement: See how leadership development and civic engagement are being encouraged to empower African Americans to take active roles in their communities.

These research insights guide our funding strategies and are crucial for creating lasting, positive change. We invite you to delve deeper into each pillar to understand the full scope of our work and its impact on the African American community in Indianapolis.

Business and Entrepreneurship

2019 Disparity Study - City of Indianapolis Proposed Path Forward + Final Materials The Small Business Sector in Urban America Enhance entrepreneurship and small business development in Indiana The Value of Diverse Business Certifications

Education

Education for All Report: Update on Racial Equity in Marion County College Equity Report Connecting Dimensions of School Leadership Culturally Responsive Teaching Impacts of Early Childhood Education on Medium- and Long-Term Educational Outcomes Indiana Plan for Black Academic Excellence Racial Equity in School Policing Report State Racial Diversity Workforce Using Discipline Data to Enhance Equity Breaking Barriers Framework

Employment

Collateral Costs Economic Policy Institute - Black Workers and COVID Economic Policy Institute Ppl of Color Will be Majority American Working Class in 2032 Evolve Now Report LeadersUP IndyGo Launches Second Chance Hiring Effort - Inside INdiana Business

Health and Wellness

2014 Community Health Assessment Forging Food Justice Through Cooperatives in New York City Health Equity Among Black Women in the US Improving Chronic Care for Safety-Net Populations National Imperative Executive Summary Racial inequalities in health

Housing and Home Ownership

Devaluation Assets Black Neighborhoods Report on Homelessness Black Homeownership Housing Presentation to the Central Indiana Realtist Association The Shortage of Affordable Housing is Worst for Hoosier Renters with Extremely Low Incomes; Indiana’s Supply and Cost Burden Remains Behind Midwest Average County National Metro Area Comparative Chart Central Indiana Housing Study The State of Fair Housing in Indiana Report: Mortgage Lending The State of Fair Housing in Indiana Report 2024: Land Contracts

Stakeholder Engagement

IAAQLI Convocation: This video is the rirst public presentation by IAAQLI introducing the community engagement strategies and the emerging priorities for future investments.

The Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative Convocation led by Tony Mason, President & CEO of the Indianapolis Urban League, and Wills Bright of the African American Coalition of Indianapolis.

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IAAQLI Convocation 2021