The desire to articulate the problems of minority populations had been expressed by the Episcopal Society for Cultural and Racial Unity.

However, it was felt that its agenda was influenced largely by white Episcopalians, and did not necessarily express the aspirations of African-Americans.

[1][2] The organization meets annually, and includes clergy and laity, men and women, without distinction.

Chapters are organized by dioceses and are joined in regional groups to express local concerns more effectively.

The goals of the union are to help the church eradicate racism within its structure, to indicate the importance of an authentic African-American voice in decisions of diocesan and national governing bodies, to develop liturgical styles in worship, and to encourage and participate in the political and religious concerns of the African American community.