About ASPIRE

The ASPIRE Center conducts place-based research on indigeneity, race and ethnicity on the Central Coast of California and across the country.

 Our center is situated on the traditional homelands of the yak titʸu titʸu yak tiłhini, Northern Chumash Tribe of San Luis Obispo County and Region, and we respect and honor the sovereignty of the Tribe in our research efforts.

 ASPIRE Center faculty, staff, and students carry out community research projects through sustained and substantive partnerships with Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color in the region and throughout the state.

 Our specific research aims are to:

• Investigate and uncover the histories of racism and white supremacy in the region and the state;
• Highlight the significant and ongoing contributions by people of color and their partners on the Central Coast and throughout the state.
• Engender and maintain greater equity and access in our society.