Background
Together, Institute of American Cultures (IAC) and its four ethnic studies research centers work to increase understanding of the emerging social and cultural realities in America through:
- Innovative research
- Events that showcase ethnic studies-driven inclusive excellence
- Fellowships and research grant programs
- Scholarship and academic excellence
- Civic engagement
The IAC and its centers were established at UCLA in 1969 and include: the American Indian Studies Center, Asian American Studies Center, Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies, and Chicano Studies Research Center.
UCLA is the only University of California campus with dedicated organized research units in ethnic studies. The formation of these ethnic studies programs occurred during the tumultuous and highly charged socio-political dynamics of the 1960s that saw a demand for colleges and universities to confront bias. These four centers were revolutionary in that they brought the diverse voices and concerns of underrepresented communities to UCLA, part of a grassroots movement taking place on college campuses nationwide at the time.
In 2019, IAC and the centers marked its historic 50th anniversary during UCLA's centennial.
Today, the centers continue to advance research that helps UCLA fulfill its public mission to serve all the peoples of California and beyond.