Equity-focused strategic planning helps organizations and public agencies ensure that their policies, programs, and services are accessible and equitable to all. By adopting an equity lens in needs assessments and action planning, organizations can redesign their policies and services to meet the needs of the most marginalized community members so everyone can benefit from the resources and opportunities provided.
Equity-focused strategic planning helps public agencies address and reduce disparities in outcomes, such as health, education, and economic mobility, due to systemic barriers and biases. By understanding the root causes of these disparities, public agencies can develop and implement policies, programs, and services that address these barriers and help to create a more just and equitable society.
Equity-focused strategic planning is important for building trust and improving the relationship between public agencies and the communities they serve. When communities see that their government is taking steps to address their needs and is committed to providing equitable services, they are more likely to engage with the government, participate in decision-making processes, and support policies and programs that benefit the community as a whole.
Equity-focused strategic planning is a critical aspect of effective governance and public administration for any agency that serves a public interest. Public agencies must prioritize it to ensure that their policies, programs, and services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all members of the community.