Umuwi Ethnic Studies is a new organization, launched in 2023, dedicated to strengthening, protecting and sustaining ethnic studies in Chicago and Illinois. Umuwi arose in response to organized, well-funded attacks on anti-racist and inclusive educational methods (in particular, Black Studies, gender/sexuality/LGBTQIA+ studies and Critical Race Theory) escalating nationwide and across Illinois. Through education and coalition-building, the cultivation of an ethnic studies movement in Chicago will cultivate belonging and wellness for BIPOC youth, improve educational outcomes, and increase youth and community civic engagement. Our vision is a city where all BIPOC and multiply marginalized young people can see and hear themselves and their communities’ stories of love, joy, resistance and freedom at the center, not the margins, of our classrooms, schools and community spaces.