about e.r.i.c.
A Family’s Fight
Eric Garner’s untimely death in July 2014 was a devastating loss that exposed the pervasive issue of police brutality and systemic racism in our society. As his mother, Gwen Carr, navigated the pain and grief of losing her son, she emerged as a beacon of strength and resilience, determined to seek justice and bring about meaningful change.
With Gwen Carr at the helm, the E.R.I.C. Initiative Foundation was established as a platform for advocacy, community empowerment, and the pursuit of equality. We are dedicated to amplifying the voices of those affected by gun and police violence, raising awareness about the deep-rooted issues that perpetuate these injustices, and creating a society where every life is valued and protected.
Our Mission
The E.R.I.C. Initiative Foundation supports and empowers youth and families who have been victims of police brutality, while also addressing the underlying issues of systemic racism and criminal justice reform. We strive to provide comprehensive wraparound services that meet the needs of at-risk youth and their families. Through political and grassroots organizing, we aim to equip young people with the power to effect change and advocate for justice.
Our Vision
We envision a world where the school-to-prison nexus has been eliminated and the prison industrial complex has been abolished. To achieve this vision, we are committed to restoring community power to those impacted by structural inequality in order to build a society that values compassion, justice, and equity for all.