BCDI-Iowa's mission is to improve and advance the quality of life for Black children and families through education, advocacy, and empowerment. Our vision is a future where Black children and their families are thriving and climbing higher heights.
Black Child Development Institute-Iowa (BCDI-Iowa) is a village of the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI). As the only national organization focused solely on the unique attributes and needs of Black children, from birth through age 8, NBCDI and its villages exist to fight for the creation of an equitable and just future for Black children and families. We mobilize communities and ignite movements on the strength of Black excellence.
We work to foster a sense of community and belonging, where Black children feel supported and valued. In collaboration with our National Village Network, BCDI-Iowa amplifies the strengths and talents of Black children and mobilize advocates in local communities who address their needs. We also serve as a convener, bringing together advocates, practitioners, policymakers and stakeholders who share our mission.
BCDI-Iowa follows NBCDI's Eight Essential Outcomes for Black Child Development. A shared vision for the first eight years of life that allows Black children to grow up safe, affirmed, nourished, and able to thrive.
Afrofuturism and Systems Change
Our approach to achieving the Eight Essential Outcomes for Black Child Development is through the NBCDI Afrofuturist Systems Design Process. This transformative framework reimagines systems rooted in Afrofuturism, equity, and liberation—systems that reflect the fullness of Black children's humanity and brilliance, creating a world where they can thrive with wonder, joy, beauty, and genius.
