Envisioning a better Pinellas County

Why Equity?

There is a deep desire we each hold as citizens for justice and fairness that reflects an understanding of the history of racism that continues to our current reality. There are concrete impacts across multiple sectors that can be measured if equitable policy changes are implemented. PolicyLink, the national leader around equity efforts, has identified equity as the “superior economic model.” PolicyLink estimates that the Pinellas County economy would be $3.6 billion larger if there were no racial gaps in income.

What's Next?

Leaning In

The Equity Profile has been used to help pinpoint some areas that deserve more detailed examination related to the policies, institutional practices, and narratives. There are many opportunities for people most impacted by those issues, in concert with policy and practice specialists, to develop solutions and influence their adoption. Already state legislation has been introduced to reduce racial disparities in housing and the criminal-legal systems.

How will success be measured?

A Data and Policy Centered Approach

The transformation of policy, practice, and cultural change driven by a desire for equity is a long-term effort. Over time, the very measures that are a part of the Equity Profile will change and evolve to better reflect progress.

Get Involved

Since the Equity Profile will be used to help pinpoint some areas that deserve more detailed examination, people most impacted by those issues, in concert with policy and practice specialists, will be engaged to develop solutions and influence their adoption. If you are passionate about changing the entrenched systems that perpetuate inequity, please reach out to UNITE Pinellas and see how you can be involved.