The Shirley Chisholm Cultural Institute (SCCI) has been at the forefront of art, culture, and justice and economic sustainability since 1977, with the official permission and participation of Congresswoman Chisholm herself in its inception and development. Its purpose is to preserve the legacy of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm through the initiatives cultivated during her public service career with 21st century activism and innovation. SCCI is aligned with grassroots groups and frontline communities through creating substantive community-based partnership and collaboration along with strategic interoperative relationships with leaders of governmental, and mainstream organizations.