DIRECT helps North Carolina cities and towns, as well as their elected and appointed officials, strengthen their communities by identifying and addressing racial disparities at the local level.

DIRECT works alongside municipal leaders to acknowledge existing inequalities, identify local history and data, and examine municipal policies and procedures that contribute to structural and systemic racism in local communities. Through this shared understanding and knowledge, DIRECT empowers local officials to develop strategies that work toward stronger, more equitable communities. 

NCLM believes that the DIRECT Approach will help cities and towns with the understanding and shared language necessary to tackle racial equity and related issues in a robust and practical way.