Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Roundtable: Impacting Policy on the Ground: The Role of Community-Based Organizations on Policy Advocacy for Low-Income and Racial/Ethnic Minority Neighborhoods

(Social Equity)

A historical analysis of policy development, analysis, and management highlights key policies that have significantly impacted the quality of life for low-income and racial/ethnic minority populations. Policies such as Jim Crow, redlining, and racial covenants impacted the access to opportunity for low-income and racial/ethnic minority populations and widened the gap for economic opportunity. Under the concept of urban renewal, policies emerged in the attempt to respond to community demands for resources and social services. However, we continue to witness a widening wealth gap by race. We have learned that policies in areas such as housing, employment, health, education, and built environment determine the ability for effective community and economic development that support a people’s quality of life. As such, we have also learned the importance of informing policy through stakeholder engagement and advocacy. Considering the impact of policy on low-income and racial/ethnic minority populations, government plays an essential role in the achievement of social equity. This roundtable will explore the role of community-based organizations in policy analysis and management in an effort to learn different approaches for the advancement of social equity. Panelists, committed to social equity, will offer insights and discuss their experiences on influencing, developing, and ensuring policy is utilized as an advocacy tool in housing, education, environmental justice, and community and economic development for low income and racial/ethnic minority communities. Following the presentations, this roundtable will engage a discussion around: (1) the importance of stakeholder engagement for policy advocacy in low income and racial/ethnic minority communities; (2) government’s responsibility to ensure social equity for these communities and; (3) the role of community-based organizations in bridging stakeholder engagement for policy advocacy with government. This roundtable will discuss the role of government in policy advocacy through community partnerships and stakeholder engagement that responds to the needs of those impacted by social inequity.