Co-Founder and Inaugural Executive Director Steps Down
Chicago United for Equity (CUE) announces Niketa Brar’s departure from her executive director role at the end of 2023. After six and a half years of dedicated service, Niketa has decided to step back from day-to-day activities as executive director. She will support the transition and remain on CUE Fellowship Faculty throughout 2024.
During her tenure, Niketa has laid a strong foundation for the organization, including establishing critical relationships across the City in various sectors, ensuring financial stability, and anchoring CUE’s future in a thoughtful strategic plan.
“Over the last seven years, I am so proud to have built a constellation of 165 racial justice leaders working inside and outside civic systems to change them, together,” said Niketa Brar, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Chicago United for Equity. “I'm most proud to know that this is a network of doers – people who are deeply serious about the work of building a truly multiracial democracy, responsive and accountable to communities of color. It's been the gift of a lifetime to usher in this work for the city I love, and I look forward to supporting CUE's growth and watching the incredible impact that our network has on Chicago's future."
The Board of Directors profoundly values Niketa’s exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing equity through her role at Chicago United for Equity. Her unwavering passion and commitment have made a lasting impression on CUE, influencing our Fellows, partners, and the ways we collectively pursue equity across Chicago.
“CUE is deeply grateful to Niketa for her creativity, vision and leadership,” said Terri A. Johnson, Chicago United for Equity Board Chair. “We will continue to support the organization she has helped build, anchoring ourselves in CUE’s strategic plan. We remain dedicated to building a Chicago that works for all of us.”
The organization begins the search for a new executive director to build upon the remarkable foundation laid by Niketa this month. During this transition period, CUE Staff and the Board of Directors will ensure a smooth continuation of operations and ongoing initiatives.
Chicago United for Equity remains committed to equipping leaders across Chicago with the tools to acknowledge history, shift power, and build accountability.