“Given the great racial and ethnic diversity in this state, attention must be paid to addressing disparities to ensure that all children and their families have equitable opportunities to thrive.”
~ New Mexico Kid’s Count

The State of New Mexico Office of African American Affairs (OAAA) recognizes the need for targeted intervention strategies that address and produce sustained results not only for African Americans, but all New Mexicans. With a purpose of developing and implementing strategies targeted to the specific disparity needs of families, the strategic plan is designed to give a greater voice and sustainability to the well-being of our community. Under original House Bill 909, it is the mandate of this agency to increase awareness and understanding surrounding the multi-dimensional issues which contribute to disparities and successes relevant to African Americans in our state. We strive to develop an action-oriented agenda for disseminating key messages that aid in the decrease and prevention of disparities. We also endeavor to establish approaches that will strengthen collaborative networks which sustain on-going initiatives in the following focus areas:

Advocacy & Policy

The Washington bureau of the NAACP states that in 2008, young voters between the ages of 18 and 24, voted on issues crucial to their communities. Which proves the continued need for issue based community activism. Learn More

Community Development

Historically in New Mexico, African American successes and contributions has not been well documented (due to low population statistics below 3%). Efforts will continue to be taken to chronicle vital and valuable history. Learn More

Economic Development

According to data collected over a five year period by the US Census Bureau (2006-2010), persons in New Mexico living at or under the federal poverty level is 18.4%. The African American population disproportionately reports at 23.6% below the federal poverty level. Learn More

Education Advancement

According to the New Mexico “2012 Progress Report” published by New Mexico First, public schools continue to have challenges increasing proficiency levels in reading, mathematics and science, which contributes to New Mexico’s high school (62%) and college (39.4%) graduation rates. Learn More

Healthcare

In response to chronic health disparities that persist in our communities and result in the decreased life expectancy of African Americans, we strive to provide greater focus, resources and coordination for health initiatives already in existence. Learn More