UM-Flint will launch institute focused on urban social justice

University of Michigan-Flint will launch a new institute focused on social justice in the Flint area that is the result of ongoing discussions in the community over the past decade.

The Urban Institute for Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice will seek to provide practical solutions and to support local efforts addressing public problems. Efforts will focus on three key areas:

• Rigorous, collaborative and community-focused interdisciplinary research, scholarship and creative activity.
• Interdisciplinary curricular development and programs.
• Professional learning and service through the development of tools, resources, and programs. 

"I am proud of our dynamic faculty and staff for leading the charge to bring the concept of the UIREEJ to fruition," said Sonja Feist-Price, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. "Our campus and community need this institute to lead the important work that is necessary for dismantling systems of oppression that currently exist."

Jan Furman, professor emerita of English will serve as executive director of the institute and Thom Bell, director of the Center for Educator Preparation will serve as managing director.