The Policy Institute advances the National Urban League’s mission of economic empowerment and civil rights through advocacy, research, policy analysis and publications that create a favorable climate for the NUL’s programs and positions among policymakers, government officials, the policy community, and the public.  Through such activities as the annual Legislative Policy Conference, The Opportunity Compact, Sunday Morning Apartheid and other reports and studies, and the publication of The State of Black America and Opportunity Journal magazine, the Policy Institute provides a foundation from which to advocate on behalf of African Americans and urban communities.
 

• Legislative and Political Advocacy; the Policy Institute advocates for the National Urban League’s agenda through interactions with both Congress and the Executive Branch as well as provides Action Alerts and background on issues currently before Congress to assist affiliates and others.
• Research and Other Publications; the Policy Institute produces both the State of Black America and the Opportunity Journal magazine, as well as research reports, fact sheets and monthly job reports. 
• Census Information Center; the National Urban League was a founding member of this program, which seeks to expand access to Census information to undeserved communities.  The National Urban League is partner of the Census Bureau to ensure the 2010 Census is as accurate as possible.