Insight Center For Community Econom

The Insight Center for Community Economy is an organization dedicated to promoting inclusion and equity for people of color, women, immigrants, and low-income families. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals can achieve and maintain economic security. To accomplish this, Insight employs four strategies: research, advocacy, narrative change, and thought leadership.

Through research, Insight identifies solutions to help low-income individuals gain access to well-paying jobs with career advancement opportunities. In 2021, Insight focused on supporting Mississippians disconnected from employment and education, particularly in certain counties with high Black and low-income populations. Their findings shed light on the two-tiered labor market in Mississippi and proposed approaches to address the issue, which could have implications for other states as well.

In the realm of advocacy, Insight is a pioneer in advancing policies and ideas that address the root causes of economic exclusion. In 2021, they published an article in TIME Magazine advocating for structural solutions to combat racism within the economy and democracy, and released a paper on racial wealth inequality. They also campaigned against unfair policies that disproportionately affect low-income communities and people of color, including child support payments and fines and fees, and helped secure legislation to alleviate these burdens.

Insight's work in narrative change seeks to challenge biases and inequities within workforce institutions and promote employment equity. In 2021, they highlighted how these institutions may perpetuate racial and gender biases, and advocated for policies and practices that promote equality. They also engaged with the media and politicians to influence the narrative surrounding infrastructure bills and human infrastructure spending, positioning themselves as economic experts.

In summary, the Insight Center for Community Economy is a nonprofit organization that works to build inclusion and equity for marginalized communities by conducting research, advocating for policies, changing narratives, and providing thought leadership. Their mission is to help individuals and communities become and remain economically secure, addressing the root causes of economic exclusion and promoting equal opportunities for all.