Racial Justice Issues

Eliminating Poverty and Economic Inequality

In statehouses and Congress, the Southern Poverty Law Center is advocating for data-backed, inclusive policies that lift people out of poverty by expanding economic opportunity.

Cutout of person sitting on a bench.

An American Dream Meets an Economic Reality.

Racial Economic Inequality Persists

Throughout the Deep South, discriminatory housing, education, employment and health care systems perpetuate poverty and hinder generational wealth accumulation, leaving many communities among the poorest in the nation.

People Living in Poverty Face Immense Obstacles

Stigmatized and targeted because of their economic status, vulnerable Black and Brown communities experience exploitation, abuse and unnecessary criminalization, siphoning away their wealth and exacerbating their poor living conditions.  

To Combat Inequality, We Must Confront Hard Truths

In order to change perceptions of communities most affected by poverty, the public must understand the historic injustices they have experienced. Reshaping attitudes is the key to building momentum toward a more equitable economic future.  

What We’re Working On

Economic Justice

Through litigation, we reclaim land and wealth unjustly taken from Black and Brown communities in the Deep South.

Wealth Generation

We advocate for policies that provide access to economic ladders of opportunity and protect the social safety net.

Land Justice

By highlighting systemic land loss injustices in Black communities, we build support for land preservation.

Homelessness

In court, we defend the rights of people experiencing homelessness to be sheltered, safe and housed.

Anti-Discrimination

We work with policymakers to advance anti-discrimination laws and safeguard DEI programs and initiatives.

Over-Criminalization

We use legislative and regulatory advocacy to prevent people from being criminalized for experiencing homelessness.

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Learn about how you can advocate for economic justice, access new SPLC publications and community resources, and read the latest updates about our legal and community organizing work. Stay connected to the SPLC by signing up for our mailing list.

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