Application Guide
How to Apply for Director of Policy and Democratic Governance
at Race Forward
🏢 About Race Forward
Race Forward is a unique organization that centers racial justice as a core strategy for building a multiracial democracy. They combine policy advocacy, movement building, and narrative change to advance equity, making them a leader in the field. Working here means contributing to systemic change at local, state, and federal levels.
About This Role
As Director of Policy and Democratic Governance, you'll lead the development and implementation of policies that embed racial equity across government. This role is impactful because it bridges movement priorities with government action, shaping how institutions address systemic racism. You'll work with partners to translate research into actionable tools for advocates and policymakers.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve meeting with government partners to align on a policy campaign, facilitating a cross-departmental team to develop a research brief, and drafting a tool for advocates. You'll also spend time reviewing policy proposals, coordinating with national networks, and supporting fundraising efforts.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Race Forward Is Looking For
- A seasoned racial equity advocate with 8+ years in policy advocacy, government practice, or movement-building, who understands how to navigate and influence local, state, and federal systems.
- A strategic thinker who can design whole-of-government approaches to racial equity and democracy-strengthening, with proven ability to manage multi-stakeholder coalitions.
- A skilled facilitator who can build alignment among diverse partners, including government officials, community organizations, and national intermediaries.
- A project manager who can lead cross-departmental initiatives, support fundraising, and contribute to strategic planning within a fast-paced environment.
📝 Tips for Applying to Race Forward
Highlight specific examples of policy wins that advanced racial equity, especially those involving multi-level government strategies.
Demonstrate your facilitation skills by describing how you've built consensus among diverse stakeholders with competing priorities.
Show your understanding of Race Forward's whole-of-government approach by referencing their past reports or campaigns in your cover letter.
Tailor your resume to emphasize experience with racial equity frameworks like GARE or similar, and include any work on democracy reform.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your personal commitment to racial justice with Race Forward's mission and the role's focus on democratic governance.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your experience in policy development that directly addresses systemic racism and strengthens democracy.', "Show how you've built and maintained partnerships across sectors (government, nonprofits, movements) to achieve policy change.", 'Highlight your ability to translate complex policy analysis into accessible tools for advocates and policymakers.', "Express your commitment to Race Forward's vision of a just, multiracial democracy and your understanding of their work."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read Race Forward's reports like 'Race, Power, and Policy' and 'The Color of COVID' to understand their policy analysis style.
- → Review their 'Government Alliance on Race and Equity' (GARE) resources to see how they partner with government entities.
- → Check their recent statements or campaigns on voting rights, democracy reform, or federal policy to understand current priorities.
- → Look into their organizational structure and the 'Place, Policy, and Power' department to understand how this role fits.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't focus solely on policy experience without showing how you've worked with grassroots movements or community organizations.
- Avoid generic statements about racial equity; be specific about your experience with systemic change and policy implementation.
- Don't neglect to mention your facilitation and coalition-building skills, as they are critical for this role.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!