PINELLAS COUNTY, FL —- Forward Pinellas is launching an Equity Assessment in order to understand what our communities need and how we can help remove existing barriers to transportation, jobs, education, housing that’s affordable and other resources. From now until May 30th, 2021, we’re calling on all Pinellas County Residents to take a quick, 5-minute survey to tell us what they need and how we can create a more equitable Pinellas together. Residents from minority communities or those who have experienced prejudice and racism are encouraged to participate.
This Equity Assessment is the first step to acknowledging our responsibility to plan for the needs of disadvantaged people and seek social justice and will take a comprehensive look at our internal structure and policies as well as the way we plan and prioritize funding for projects throughout the county.
“I am proud to be part of an agency that is committed to dismantling the racist legacy of past urban planning laws and policies. The equity assessment is the first step in developing a stronger connection with the community by ensuring that our planning work is inclusive and equitable.” Says Forward Pinellas Chair and St. Petersburg Councilmember Darden Rice.
- Take the 5-minute Equity Survey: ly/fpequitysurvey
- Share the survey with family and friends
- Sign up for our Email list: bit.ly/fpequityemail
- Read the blog to learn more: ly/fpequityblog
“As planners, it is our responsibility to listen to the needs and desires of the underserved who have been marginalized and don’t trust government institutions because they have been denied access to the same services, resources, and opportunities as others,” says Forward Pinellas Planning Division Manager Rodney Chatman. “I’m very optimistic about the chance to assess and adjust our policies, programs, and strategies so people of color have a stronger voice in the decision-making process.”
Results of this survey will be read by passionate individuals on the Forward Pinellas team in order to shape a vision and action plan that directly reflects our community’s voices. Forward Pinellas will also be conducting a deep dive regarding equity considerations within our strategic business plans, criteria for awarding and funding projects, board and committee structures, as well as partnerships and outreach initiatives.
For more information about the Equity Assessment, visit www.forwardpinellas.org/equity
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