CSMGEP was established by the American Economic Association (AEA) in 1968 to increase the representation of minorities in the economics profession, primarily by broadening opportunities for the training of underrepresented minorities. CSMGEP, which is comprised of economists from all areas of the profession, also works to ensure that issues related to the representation of minorities and those doing research relevant to minority populations are considered in the work of the AEA and engages in other efforts to promote the advancement of these groups.