Mission, Vision, and Core Values
Mission
We are Loyola University Chicago's academic hub dedicated to dismantling systemic racism and promoting racial equity through innovative research, transformative education, and meaningful partnerships.
Vision
The Institute for Racial Justice will catalyze Loyola University Chicago's evolution into a nationally recognized model for the academic pursuit of racial justice and equity, driving meaningful change and creating a more just and equitable society in Chicago and beyond.
What We Do
We bring people, organizations, and resources together to collaboratively design and test new strategies meant to address pressing economic, education, and health needs. These efforts allow IRJ to serve as a catalytic partner in dismantling long-standing racial inequities in the greater Chicagoland area while simultaneously providing transformational learning experiences for youth and adult learners that is aimed at building the next generation of socially conscious, ethical, and diverse racial justice and equity scholars.
Core Values (the HAART of all we do)
Humanity. We believe in the equal, inherent, and inviolable dignity of every human being, regardless of race, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. We uphold all individuals' intrinsic worth and dignity, recognizing that everyone deserves respect, fairness, and compassion. We are committed to advancing racial justice as a fundamental aspect of promoting the common good and fostering inclusive communities where everyone can thrive free from discrimination and oppression.
Accessibility. Education and open dialogue are vital tools for advancing racial equity. We believe access to learning opportunities and the free exchange of ideas should be available to the broadest range of people without barriers. This requires proactively designing inclusive programs, communications, and spaces that are welcoming, representative, and empower diverse voices and perspectives to engage fully.
Accountability. Authentic progress on racial justice depends on developing deep, sustained relationships built on mutual accountability, trust, and follow-through. We take full responsibility for our words, actions, commitments, and impacts. We expect the same high level of ethical accountability from the individuals, communities, and partner organizations with whom we collaborate on this journey toward equity and justice.
Reflection. Continuous learning, unlearning, and improvement lie at the heart of dismantling the entrenched, complex systems and mindsets that perpetuate racial injustice. We embrace an ongoing cycle of critical self-reflection - questioning assumptions, expanding our understanding, and evolving individually and collectively. This persistent growth mindset is a non-negotiable requirement.
Transformative Action. Creating substantive, lasting change toward racial equity requires active participation from all members of society in transforming unjust conditions. We believe collective action can reshape institutions, policies, and social norms and construct an anti-racist society. Our role is to inspire, equip, and join arms with people taking on this transformative work.
If you have questions or want to get involved with IRJ please contact us at racialjustice@luc.edu.
Mission
We are Loyola University Chicago's academic hub dedicated to dismantling systemic racism and promoting racial equity through innovative research, transformative education, and meaningful partnerships.
Vision
The Institute for Racial Justice will catalyze Loyola University Chicago's evolution into a nationally recognized model for the academic pursuit of racial justice and equity, driving meaningful change and creating a more just and equitable society in Chicago and beyond.
What We Do
We bring people, organizations, and resources together to collaboratively design and test new strategies meant to address pressing economic, education, and health needs. These efforts allow IRJ to serve as a catalytic partner in dismantling long-standing racial inequities in the greater Chicagoland area while simultaneously providing transformational learning experiences for youth and adult learners that is aimed at building the next generation of socially conscious, ethical, and diverse racial justice and equity scholars.
Core Values (the HAART of all we do)
Humanity. We believe in the equal, inherent, and inviolable dignity of every human being, regardless of race, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. We uphold all individuals' intrinsic worth and dignity, recognizing that everyone deserves respect, fairness, and compassion. We are committed to advancing racial justice as a fundamental aspect of promoting the common good and fostering inclusive communities where everyone can thrive free from discrimination and oppression.
Accessibility. Education and open dialogue are vital tools for advancing racial equity. We believe access to learning opportunities and the free exchange of ideas should be available to the broadest range of people without barriers. This requires proactively designing inclusive programs, communications, and spaces that are welcoming, representative, and empower diverse voices and perspectives to engage fully.
Accountability. Authentic progress on racial justice depends on developing deep, sustained relationships built on mutual accountability, trust, and follow-through. We take full responsibility for our words, actions, commitments, and impacts. We expect the same high level of ethical accountability from the individuals, communities, and partner organizations with whom we collaborate on this journey toward equity and justice.
Reflection. Continuous learning, unlearning, and improvement lie at the heart of dismantling the entrenched, complex systems and mindsets that perpetuate racial injustice. We embrace an ongoing cycle of critical self-reflection - questioning assumptions, expanding our understanding, and evolving individually and collectively. This persistent growth mindset is a non-negotiable requirement.
Transformative Action. Creating substantive, lasting change toward racial equity requires active participation from all members of society in transforming unjust conditions. We believe collective action can reshape institutions, policies, and social norms and construct an anti-racist society. Our role is to inspire, equip, and join arms with people taking on this transformative work.