About the Program
National League of Cities’ Race, Equity and Leadership (REAL) department is the driving force behind equipping local governments to govern for all by addressing racial disparities in policy, practice, and outcomes. REAL partners with elected officials, municipal staff and community leaders to transform systems and institutions — ensuring safe, thriving and equitable communities for all residents.
Every city, town and village in America faces disparities — whether in safety, health, housing, education or economic opportunity. This work is not about individuals; it’s about transforming governance to center those most negatively impacted by systemic inequities. By focusing on policy transformation, institutional change and capacity building, we empower municipalities to develop strategies that drive measurable improvements in outcomes for all people.
Our Work
- Centering All People Practitioners (CAPP) Cohort – A national network of 16 practitioners receiving direct technical assistance, learning and practice sessions, and strategic support in securing federal funding and advancing policy change. Their mission is to eliminate disparities while improving outcomes for all.
- REAL Essentials Curriculum – A newly developed Learning & Practice journey designed for government leaders and staff. This training builds knowledge and skills to identify disparities, understand their root causes, and transform policy, procedure, practice and programs — ensuring government actions eliminate disparities while improving outcomes for all.
- Policy & Institutional Change – REAL is shifting from theory to action, embedding equity into municipal governance. We provide direct support to cities seeking to draft, refine, or create policies that eliminate disparities, ensuring more just and effective systems that improve outcomes for all people.
- Transforming Government Systems – REAL works alongside cities to reimagine and restructure municipal institutions, centering those most negatively impacted in decision-making and operations. We help cities identify who sits furthest from their stated goals — whether it’s safety, health, housing security or economic stability — and equip them to develop targeted strategies that address the root causes of disparities. This work results in policies, procedures, practices and programs that drive long-term, systemic change for all.
REAL is not just a program — it’s a movement to redefine how cities govern, ensuring that all people, regardless of race or background, can and will thrive. The work ahead demands bold leadership, strategic action, and an unwavering commitment to equity.
Join us in transforming local governance to serve all people, equitably and effectively.
REAL Essentials
REAL offers various training opportunities and programs through NLCU to empower and equip local officials with the tools to address racial disparities in their communities. Learn how your city can get involved.
Local Government Infrastructure for Racial Equity
Explore examples of concrete policy and budgetary changes local elected officials have made to prioritize racial equity in their cities, towns and villages.
