Overview

The the Center for Equity Practice and Planning Justice is dedicated to expanding opportunities for historically marginalized communities by addressing the deep-rooted patterns of racial segregation in urban and regional planning. Our mission is to dismantle these systems that perpetuate inequality and to develop equitable practices that foster inclusive, healthy, and sustainable neighborhoods.

Through innovative research, collaboration, and community engagement, the center focuses on addressing disparities in housing, transportation, economic development, public health, and education. By providing actionable strategies and resources, we aim to transform segregated regions like Milwaukee into thriving, equitable communities for all residents.

A vital Resource

The Center for Equity Practice and Planning Justice will serve as a resource hub for community organizations, government agencies and urban planners striving to deconstruct racially segregated placemaking. Activities will include public forums on equitable economic development and research initiatives focused on zoning reforms, transportation justice and other areas of concern for marginalized communities.

Partners

The center is supported by key partners and community leaders committed to advancing equity and social justice. Collaborations among partners will help drive the center’s research, outreach and advocacy efforts to create more equitable planning practices throughout the region.

In the Media

New UWM center aims to confront discrimination in urban planning, policies
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel | La Risa R. Lynch | October 20024

Leaders gather to celebrate launch of UWM Center for Equity Practice and Planning Justice
UWM Report | Becky Lang | October 2024

‘Planners are dreamers’: UW-Milwaukee launches equity center for urban planning
Wisconsin Public Radio | Mackenzie Krumme | October 2024

New bid to expand I-94 follows a painful legacy for Black and Hispanic communities
Wisconsin Public Radio | Jonah Beleckis | February 2024

In the Podcast

Highways and Harm: Unpacking Environmental Injustice in Communities of Color
Advancing Equity Through Innovative Practice Podcast | Dennis M Grzezinski, an environmental lawyer and advocate in Wisconsin

Farming as Reclamation: A Conversation with Martice and Amy Scales
Advancing Equity Through Innovative Practice Podcast | Martice Scales, Co-Founder and Farm Manager of Full Circle Healing Farm and Apothocary | Amy Kroll-Scales, Co-Founder and Healing Center Manager of Full Circle Healing and Apothocary

Collective Action: Renters and the Power to Claim Community When You Do Not Own
Advancing Equity Through Innovative Practice Podcast | Edain Altamirano, Organizing Director, Inquilinxs Unidxs Por Justicia (United Renters for Justice)

Get Involved

We invite individuals, organizations, and communities passionate about promoting equity to join us in this critical work. Here’s how you can participate:

• Collaborate with Us: Whether you’re a scholar, community leader, or practitioner, the Center welcomes partnerships to advance our mission. Share your expertise and work with us to address key urban and regional challenges.
• Attend Our Events: Participate in public forums, workshops, and educational sessions that focus on creating equitable planning practices. Stay updated on upcoming events by joining our mailing list. (Hyperlinked)
• Support the Center: Your contributions help us sustain critical research, community programs, and educational initiatives. Contact Ana Conant to discuss ways you can support our work: conant@uwm.edu

Contact

Dr. Kirk Harris

Founding Director
Center for Equity Practice & Planning Justice
ceppj-sarup@uwm.edu