Issue Framing
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| Framing Public Life: Perspectives on Media and Our Understanding of the Social World |
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| Bullying, Cyberbullying and Student Well-Being in Schools: Comparing European, Australian and Indian Perspectives |
It is probably quite
instinctive to consider how different problems in the world compete for
attention from policymakers. There are so many problems to address, which ones
are going to get priority? On the other hand, consider how different framings
or definitions of problems are also competing for attention. Statements about a
set of social conditions defining it as a problem represent interpretations and
framing from a wide array of possibilities. It involves various potential
framings or definitions contend for attention on policy agendas. Perhaps you’re
wondering if data and scientific evidence definitively reveal the correct
problem definition. Indeed, an objective framing of social problem should
involve good data, information and evidence. However, it’s also accurate that
in defining a set of conditions as a problem, it also entails defining those
conditions as bad in some manner. Perhaps the conditions are bad because they
are causing harm to people. Individuals or societies could improve. People are facing
unjust or unequal treatment. People or communities are being treated unfairly,
et cetera. The point here is that all problem definitions for public policy
encompass some normative element. This means they incorporate some value
statement or moral reframing, incorporating concepts of what’s good and bad for
people or communities, and also what’s good or bad for the government to do and
what should the government do or refrain from doing through policy? To recap,
getting issues or problems on public policy agendas, there’s competition among
a variety of problems. These problems compete for limited space on the agendas
of the media, advocacy organizations, political parties and the government.
They must be part of these agendas before there will be a policy debate in
response. The important point is that before these problems be part agendas,
there’s also a process by which specific conditions in society have been
labeled, constructed or framed as a problem. These different framings or
definitions themselves compete for our attention to not only get on policy
agendas, but in the end, get a public policy response to the problem as it has
been defined.
Let’s delve into the
intricate issue of firearm violence in the US, the United States has a
significantly higher number of guns per capita compared to other countries and
higher rate of violence related to firearms compared to other countries. This
includes violence in the form of homicide, mass shootings and suicide. One
framing of the problem of the firearm violence in the United States is that the
ease of gun carrying and ownership. There is an excessive number of firearms in
circulation, with easy access to purchase, possess and carry them in public
spaces. This indicates an overabundance of firearms present in both public and
private spaces. In this framing, it has also suggested that this extensive
availability to firearms creates an environment in which firearms have become a
leading contributor to mortality, injury and suicide. However, other framings
of the problem of firearm violence in the United State propose that the problem
is not guns, the problem is people. The problem is that there are some
individuals with violent tendencies who choose to employs guns in their acts of
violence. Some people who are criminals, who are evil or mentally ill, misuse
firearms, making it challenging to prevent them from carrying out their violent
intentions. Also, in some related framing of the problem, the idea is that by
having more people with guns in public spaces they can be prepared to intervene
in situations where violent individuals are attempting to harm others. This
perspective suggests that the problem of firearm violence, It is
considered by many that more regulation and restrictions fail to address the
mental health, public health and safety problems in American society. Policy
proposals to limit the access to firearms will not effectively address that
problem of bad people or mentally ill people who misuse firearms. Lastly, the
right to bear arms is enshrined in the US Constitution. Many individuals
believed that the enshrinement of a right takes precedence over all other
societal concerns, there are different perspectives on what public policy
should and should not do to address the issue of firearm violence. Additionally,
the issue of firearm violence in the US is multifaceted, which cannot be
reduced to just two framings of the problem. Diverse priorities and values that
are applied on competing definitions of the problem. Moreover, it is to
acknowledge that not only do social problems compete for attention on policy
agendas, but also the various ways in which they are defined and framed as the
problem also compete for attention. Please keep in mind that social problem
framing is a collective or group
political process that involves both data and evidence together with values.
Framing and Policy Making
https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/article/framing-and-policy-making/
Policy Target Groups:
Benefits Vs Burdens
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| Burden or Benefit?: Imperial Benevolence and Its Legacies |
Anne
Schneider and Helen Ingram's convergence theory suggests that the convergence
of political power and social framing of potential policy target
groups creates four distinct groups, with different policy benefits versus
burdens. This model further predict the types of benefits and burdens that each
of the four groups will likely face in public policies. Let’s take a closer
look at each group.
- Groups that
are positively constructed in society and have significant political power are
categorized as advantaged. This groups having political power, means being able
to influence how policy is designed and whether it will result in burdens,
benefits or even face the possibility of not being approved. For the advantaged
group or those with a positive social framing and political power, the model
predicts that public policy is most likely to bring more benefits than burdens.
The data suggests that the balance between burdens and benefits is weighted
towards benefits. Some examples of advantaged groups include the elderly,
veterans, scientists and science organizations and some businesses, especially
those seen as providing a social benefit.
Groups: Process and Practice - Groups that are negatively constructed in society but have political power are referred to as "contenders". The model predicts that contenders, with their negative social framing but significant political power, will experience benefits but they are often hidden, and fewer burdens than other groups. Some examples in this group are pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies, wealthy elites and the National Rifle Association and gun manufacturers.
- Groups that are positively constructed in society yet have no political power in turn, are called “dependence”. For dependence, groups with a positive social framing but limited political power, are likely to experience both burdens and benefits but the benefits potentially symbolic, weak or hidden. Some examples of groups in this category are children and people in the disability community.
- Then finally, groups that are negatively constructed and don’t have any political power are referred to as deviants. For deviant, characterized by low political power and negatively constructed in society, the model forecasts that public policy will predominantly impose burdens, with only a few, if any, weak in benefits. Additionally, if policy does bring benefits to groups in this category, it often involves significant burdens, including administrative burdens, work requirements for public assistance or other kinds of burdens. Some examples of groups in this groups are people with drug addiction, sex workers, people who have engaged in criminal behavior, and people living in poverty or require public assistance.
In summary,
the key points from the lessons. First, the social problems that a public
policy aims to address has been constructed, framed and defined through social
and political processes. In addition, every group that receives attention
whether positively or negatively through public policy has also been framed or
defined through social and political processes. As a result, the ways in which
social problems and policy target groups are framed plays a crucial role in
shaping the policy options that are under consideration, prioritized and
implemented. Everything about this is value laden, refer to something that is
heavily influenced or characterized
by specific values, beliefs or principles and value – driven, refer to
something that is guided or motivated
by certain values or principles. Values are the foundation of this process and
drive every aspect of it.
Issue
Framing: Perspective from Advocates
Mastering the art of framing is a key strategy for enhancing the effectiveness of a social movement. Framing is a tool that helps people see issues from a different angle and discuss them in new ways. This is the process of communicating ideas and concepts through specific language, imagery, and associations that shape our understanding. Our perspectives on morality and emotions. For instance, in the United States, before 2003, the responsibility for providing care and shelter to unaccompanied migrant children was entrusted to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), which also handled law enforcement duties. As policemen, prosecutors, and parents, they lacked the necessary skills and expertise to provide adequate care for children. In 2003, Congress transferred the responsibility for caring for unaccompanied migrant children from the Immigration and Naturalization Service to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). The Office of Refugee Resettlement is more equipped to provide care and support to children, free from the conflicts of interest that the Immigration and Naturalization Service faced. The Office of Refugee Resettlement is more equipped to prioritize the well-being and best interests of children. The Office of Refugee Resettlement is free from the conflicts of interest that the Immigration and Naturalization Service had when it came to shifting the care and custody of children. We had to reframe how children are seen and treated. This required distinguishing between children's and
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| Reframing the Social: Emergentist Systemism and Social Theory |
Systemic Inequality: Displacement, Exclusion, and Segregation
Reading:
https://www.americanprogress.org/article/systemic-inequality-displacement-exclusion-segregation/
Public Policy and Social Inequality
The Public Good: Equity vs. Equality
In public administration, the pillar of equity involves applying an equity lens to analyze and address issues and problems. An equity lens is a framework for examining, including with data, social problem definitions and framing, public policy agendas, prospective policy solutions and the administration of governmental agencies, programs and public goods using a perspective that takes into account the effects of systemic bias, discrimination and oppression on marginalized groups related to gender or sex, ethnicity, or culture, race, religion, age, geographic area or any other social factors that are involved in creating unfair differences in access to resources, opportunities and the protections of rights.
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| Inequality and Equity: Economics of Greed, Politics of Envy, Ethics of Equality |
Second, Disparities. Our differences in which various sub-populations or groups differ from each other. But these differences are understood to be driven by things outside of the individuals involved in their own personal preferences. Disparities specifically refer to measurable differences in the distribution of resources or services that are associated with significant social, economic, or health impacts. Disparities often involve unequal treatment or unequal access to resources, which can lead to unequal outcomes. For example, disparities in healthcare might manifest as differences in health outcomes or access to healthcare services based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
In the context of public goods, understanding and addressing these differences and disparities is crucial for ensuring that resources are distributed fairly and effectively to all members of society. This involves recognizing the inherent differences in people's circumstances and addressing these differences to achieve more equal outcomes, rather than just equal access. Disparities or differences that exist because of differences in resources, opportunities, discrimination, etc. Not because of personal preferences or choices.
Inequalities are differences in outcomes that are deemed as unfair and unjust because they are unequal or not the same. Inequalities are differences in both inputs and outcomes that are deemed as unfair or unjust because of differential access to the resources, opportunities, environments and treatment that’s required for equality.
Let’s think about equality versus equity instead of inequality and inequity. Equality is when each individual, group or community has the same resources, opportunities, treatment and outcomes. Important things that we care about in the public sector are equal or the same. Equity, on the other hand, recognizes that individuals, groups and communities have different circumstances and in turn allocates or uphold the resources, opportunities and experiences given to each that are needed to achieve equal outcomes. For example, in relation to health disparities and social justice. Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome, whereas equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities.
The concept of "public goods" is a crucial aspect of understanding the differences between equity and equality. Public goods are resources or services that are available to all members of a society, such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure. The allocation of these resources is critical in ensuring that they are distributed fairly and effectively to all members of the society. In the context of public goods, equity and equality are distinct principles that guide how these resources are distributed. Equality refers to the distribution of resources in such a way that each individual or group receives the same amount or access, regardless of their individual circumstances or needs. This approach is often based on the idea that everyone should have equal access to the same resources, regardless of their differences. For example, in a healthcare system, equality might be achieved by providing the same level of care to all patients, regardless of their health status or socioeconomic background.On the other hand, Equity is about ensuring that resources are distributed in a way that addresses the differences in needs and circumstances among individuals or groups. This approach recognizes that people have different needs and circumstances that affect their ability to access and utilize resources. For instance, in a healthcare system, equity might be achieved by providing more resources to those who need them most, such as those with lower socioeconomic status or those with chronic health conditions. This approach acknowledges that people have different starting points and that the goal is to level the playing field to ensure equal outcomes, not just equal access.In the context of public goods, equity is often preferred because it acknowledges the inherent differences in people's circumstances and seeks to address these differences to achieve more equal outcomes. This approach is particularly important in addressing health disparities, where people from different backgrounds may face different barriers to accessing healthcare services. By prioritizing equity, public health systems can ensure that resources are distributed in a way that addresses these disparities and promotes better health outcomes for all members of society
Data analysts in the public sector are often asked to explore data for both differences and disparities. This type of exploratory data analysis and data visualization is best conducted as objectively, detailed and clear as possible. The data should provide a comprehensive picture of the magnitude, direction, and temporal changes in these differences and disparities. Once the data is analyzed and presented, the interpretation phase begins, where the distinction between civil rights and human rights becomes crucial in determining whether differences represent inequality or inequity, and whether they are grounded in notions of deservingness and fairness.
Furthermore, to analyze differences from a rights perspective, it is essential to distinguish between civil rights, which are legally enshrined and enforced by governments, and human rights, which are based on universal codes of morals and ethics, encompassing the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals.
In philosophy, there's a fundamental
notion that rights and duties are intertwined. If someone has a right, then
another entity has a corresponding duty to uphold that right. This concept is
particularly relevant when discussing governments and the public sector, where
the duties of a government are limited to upholding civil rights that are
codified through formal policy and laws. However, in public sector data
analysis, the transition from data highlighting differences and disparities to
claims of inequality and inequity can be more complex. But the point here is
that most, not all, but most governments are designed to care about equity and and
data plays a crucial role in this endeavor by illuminating social equity and
inequity issues through meticulous analysis and visualization. It is the data
analysis and data visualization that shine bright lights on social equity and
inequity issues.
Let’s end with a graphic that tries to illustrate the difference between equality, equity and then justice, which includes what governments can do to address inequities.
The first panel of this graphic
depicts three people trying to watch a baseball game from behind a fence and
chose equality. But also the flawed assumption that everyone benefits when
provided the same or equal resources or supports, or gets equal treatment,
which in this case is a box of exact same size to stand on, to see over the fence. This equality and support or
treatment does not create equal outcomes as the shortest person on the right,
still cannot see over the fence to see the game. Again, there’s equality and
support, but an equity in the outcome.
The middle panel shows each person
getting what they need to see the game. The first – person gets nothing because
they can already see the game. The second person gets a box, the height needed
to facilitate seeing over the fence. The third person gets an even taller box
to facilitate their ability to see over the fence. This different or inequality
in treatment is what leads to equity in the end.
However, one more important
point, the last panel shows the three people watching the game with
the wooden fence gone. The barrier that created the different levels
of a problem or different obstacles for different people was actively
removed. Now a chain link fence is now in place that still protects
the crowd, but also allows everyone to see the game. In this analogy,
this removing the structural barrier is referred to as
justice. All people can now achieve the goal of seeing the game
without additional support or accommodation because the root cause of
the inequity was addressed. Again, this is just an analogy to unpack
more the concepts of equality, equity, and then also addressing root
causes of inequity removing structural barriers.
Example:
Digital Equity
The importance of equality and equity in the public sector has been emphasized, along with the vital role of exploratory data analysis and data visualization in uncovering and addressing differences and disparities that governments may label as inequities and in turn devise interventions to address.
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| Enhancing Digital Equity: Connecting the Digital Underclass |
Moving forward, we will delve into the topic of digital equity, which refers to the conditions necessary for all individuals and communities to have access to the information, technology, and capacity needed for full participation in education, the economy, democracy and all aspects of society, with internet access being a fundamental public good. A public good is a resource that provides a social benefit to society and populations, characterized by non-rivalry, where use by one does not diminish the availability for others, and non-excludability, ensuring equal access for all.
In the context of digital resources, the current state is far from ideal, which is why efforts are focused on implementing measures to achieve digital equity. Key elements of digital equity include affordable and consistent broadband Internet access, access to Internet-connected devices, and access to apps and resources that enhance work, education, and collaboration. Additionally, digital inclusion involves support mechanisms such as tech support, user-experienced support, and broad public education. Data visualization plays a crucial role in understanding levels and trends in digital equity.
To provide a better understanding, let's look at a few examples. The first map illustrates the percentage of each country's population
with Internet access worldwide in 2019. This map offers a quick overview of the
most critical digital inequity issues before the pandemic. This includes
the entire continent of Africa and parts of Southeast Asia standing out
the most. This data visualization
includes a series of bar charts, created by the Pew Foundation, which
highlights digital access indicators for a specific set of countries, including
the percentage of adults who use the Internet at home, those who use it without home access, and those who do not use it at all.
The slide displays a map of India, illustrating the digital divide by
showing the rate of broadband subscribers per 100 people by state, with colors used to represent the inequities in broadband subscription rates, with greenish states having the lowest rates. Similar to this, the city of Chicago created a map that shows the percentage of households with internet access in each neighborhood.
The map's color legend, ranging from dark blue to yellow, represents a gradual increase in internet access 55% to almost 100% coverage in neighborhoods across the city, with darker colors indicating lower levels of access. This graphic effectively communicates the digital divide across Chicago's neighborhoods, making it easy to understand for those without visual impairments or colorblindness
Next, we have a comprehensive bar chart that illustrates not only the realized growth in broadband subscription in Brazil but also the projected growth over time. The graph presents the percentage distribution of broadband platforms, with a key detail that it includes both current data and projected growth starting from 2019.
A few more graphs that I think are worth taking a closer look at. One of them explores smartphone and tablet ownership, as well as social media usage, in the United States over time. Here's another graph you to take a closer look at: a scatter plot that shows the correlation between income and internet access in US counties, with a color scheme that highlights the relationship between income and internet access by urbanicity, including urban, suburban, and rural areas To demonstrate the growing trend of making digital equity data publicly
accessible so that people can explore the data on their own, we would like to
highlight an interactive website that provides a digital equity scorecard for
each US state, featuring indicators such as digital skill needs, training
issues, and workforce challenges, as well as the presence of a strategic plan
to address digital inequities. This interactive data set is a
fun and interactive way to learn about digital equity, so I encourage you to
take some time to play around with it and see what you can learn.
In summary, if basic information technology and Internet access are considered public goods, then the government should prioritize achieving equal access and use for all. Data highlighting inequalities in access and use are crucial for informing these efforts, and digital equity involves providing communities and individuals with what they need to bridge the gap towards equality.
Public
Policy and Structural Inequality
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| Understanding the Dynamics of Global Inequality: Social Exclusion, Power Shift, and Structural Changes |
As an example, this graph demonstrates the persistent gender gaps in wages or pay that are found across a wide range of developed countries. The gender pay gap cannot be attributed to differences in educational background, time, and experience in the labor market or different types of jobs between men and women, as research has consistently shown.
The graph
demonstrates the striking differences in life expectancy between different
racial and ethnic groups in the United States. The data reveals that life
expectancy is decreasing across all racial and ethnic groups in the United
States, but the magnitude of this decline varies significantly, with American
Indians and Alaska Natives experiencing the lowest life expectancy and the
largest decline between 2019 and 2021.
You're already aware that socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, and other social factors all play a significant role in determining outcomes. The key question is, what explains the widespread nature of social inequality? How do we understand this complex issue? First-order explanations attempt to explain the individual factors that contribute to the unequal distribution of outcomes like education, wealth, health, and so on, within society. This is an individual-level explanation that includes factors such as personal endowments, which are the natural talents or abilities that individuals are born with, as economists and researchers like to call these.
However,
it's the innate characteristics that people are born with, such as genetics,
natural talents, abilities, and traits, which are often referred to as gifts of
nature. Other explanations for social inequality emphasize the impact of
individual choices on exploiting opportunities and the willingness to work
hard. Additionally, differences in social outcomes could be a result of the
choices made by families and individuals. Positive outcomes will arise from
making deliberate, well-considered decisions rather than making rash, negative
choices, taking excessive risks, or neglecting the future, et cetera.
Moreover, we need to consider whether these first-order explanations are able to fully account for the social inequality observed in the United States and many other countries. Are opportunities and resources universally accessible and equally distributed among all individuals? Do all people have the same opportunities to make positive choices, utilize resources, and succeed in society? Every social and population science, including economics, sociology, political science, psychology, public health, and demography, has a body of theory and research that emphasizes the need for a multifaceted understanding of social inequality, extending beyond individual-level explanations. We need to move beyond first-order explanations and consider second-order explanations that reveal how persistent racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic differences in social and health outcomes are shaped by differences in exposure to both positive and negative factors. Community-level resources and investments, including environmental factors like air quality, lead pipes, and community cohesion, are essential for promoting the health, well-being, and economic development of local communities.
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| Embodying Inequality: Epidemiologic Perspectives |
The physical and social environments of communities are critical factors
in determining economic, social, and health outcomes, and are nested within
broader societal systems that are influenced by public policy in both positive
and negative ways. Building on the socio-ecological model, let's explore the
different contexts in which discrimination and differential treatment based on
race and ethnicity can occur. We must acknowledge that racism exists and
operates in distinct ways at each level of the socio-ecological model. At the
highest level of the socio-ecological model, we need to consider how
second-order drivers of inequality, such as systemic biases and structural
inequalities, influence societal systems in often subtle yet profound ways.
Discriminatory or unfair practices can also exist within institutions and
organizations.
When we think of racism and discrimination, we must also consider the
role of interpersonal racism, where individuals reveal their bigotry and bias
through their words and actions. Examples of interpersonal racism include
individuals with power to influence others, such as those who make hiring or
promotion decisions, or those who interact with others in everyday settings
like stores, schools, or restaurants. I believe that when people think about
racism, they often start with interpersonal racism, as it is a level of racism
that is easy to understand and relate to. Moreover, racism and bias can
manifest at all levels of the socio-ecological model, from individual to
societal. Research has found that some people, often starting as children,
internalize the racist and biased messages they receive from others, from
societal institutions, from culture, from individuals and in internalizing
these messages, leading them to feel less deserving, have different abilities,
and have fewer opportunities and resources. Second-order drivers of social
inequality, such as racial inequality, can be internalized by
individuals, influencing their perceptions of their own opportunities,
choices, abilities, and deservingness.
The iceberg
analogy for racism, developed by Professor Gilbert G, highlights the
distinction between the visible, overt expressions of racism and the
often-invisible, systemic and structural factors that contribute to its
persistence. The iceberg's tip is comprised of overt hate crimes, white
supremacist rhetoric and actions, racial jokes, and racial slurs, which are
both morally reprehensible and illegal. Racism, however, is expressed
in society and many other ways that are invisible and below this
tip of the iceberg.
This
includes all of the examples on this slide, including
such things as the legacies of racial residential segregation
on schools and educational experiences, as well as the legacies of segregation
on bank red lining and its impact on the ability of black
people to purchase property, gain wealth, and contribute
to intergenerational wealth and upward
mobility. Additionally, there is a well-documented school-to-prison
pipeline for black males in the United States, which includes
differential punishments by race for the same offense, starting
in school and continuing into the criminal justice system.
Furthermore, there is a great deal of even less visible racism that
operates at these and other levels in society that are way
underneath the surface and much harder to see.
Dr. Paula Braveman is a respected physician and social scientist who has conducted groundbreaking research on the social and economic factors contributing to health disparities, particularly in the context of racial and ethnic disparities in health outcomes in the United States and other countries. The disparities in health outcomes are starkly reflected in differences in life
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| Ehealth Solutions for Healthcare Disparities |
As we delve
deeper into the realm of public policy, it becomes essential to recognize that
these systems are not only created but also maintained and reinforced by a
network of structures that have evolved over time. As we delve deeper into the
realm of public policy, it becomes essential to recognize that these systems
are not only created but also maintained and reinforced by a network of
structures that have evolved over time. Dr. Braveman's analysis focuses on the
structural components or designed elements within systems that create and
perpetuate differential treatment. The research highlights the far-reaching
impact of systemic racism, encompassing both the cultural and social norms that
shape our values and beliefs, as well as the public policies that govern our
society and influence individual experiences. The analysis emphasizes the
crucial role of policy implementation and enforcement in determining the impact
of laws, regulations, administrative rules, and burdens for access to programs
and resources and the ways in which policies are implemented and enforced.
These structures can be viewed as the underlying infrastructure or the foundation that supports and sustains systems, encompassing both public sector systems and those governed by laws, regulations, and policies. Dr. Braveman's explanation may have become intricate, but to simplify the concept, let me provide a concise summary. Public policy serves as the fundamental framework or infrastructure that supports and influences the operation of key societal systems, providing the essential foundation for their development and effectiveness. Public policy serves as the fundamental framework or infrastructure that supports and influences the operation of key societal systems. Public policy can also incorporate biases, differential treatment, and structured chance, which can perpetuate racial and ethnic disparities, and this is what can be defined as structural racism. That’s the bad news. Meanwhile, while public policy can perpetuate racial and ethnic disparities, the positive news is that these policies can be reformed and changed. If there are ways in which laws, regulations, public programs, rules, or other features of our social systems are contributing to these higher levels within society of racism, these can be changed. Public policy is a crucial component in understanding social inequality in our society. public policy plays a crucial role in shaping and perpetuating systemic and institutional racism. This implies that public policies, whether intentional or unintentional, can contribute to the creation and maintenance of racial disparities and inequalities in various aspects of society, such as healthcare, education, housing, and employment. It also serves as a pivotal platform for driving transformation, with the development and implementation of innovative and reformed public policies being essential for achieving social change, particularly related to the core pillar of equity.
The Importance of Equity in Public
Health: Interview with Dr. Joneigh Khaldun
Throughout
this course, we have explored the fundamental principles of public service,
including efficiency, economy, effectiveness, and equity, which serve as the
foundation for delivering high-quality services that benefit the public.
I would like
to catch up the conversation between Professor Paula Lantz and Dr. Joneigh
Khaldun and gain valuable insights about the topic. The conversation between
the two individuals revolves around the concept of equity, specifically in the
context of public policy, public services, and public programs. They discuss
the importance of equity as a core principle and fundamental motivator for
their work, emphasizing that it is critical to everything they do in public
service. They define equity as ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to be
as healthy as possible, regardless of their background, circumstances, or
demographics.They highlight the challenges in addressing equity and inequities,
citing the need to understand root causes, disparate treatment, and disparate
access to resources. They emphasize the role of data in addressing inequities,
noting that it is essential to consider the impact on historically marginalized
communities, including racial, ethnic, and minority groups, as well as those
with different abilities, older individuals, and those living in rural
areas.The conversation also touches on the importance of integrating equity
into all aspects of work, making it a core principle and not just a one-off
initiative. They discuss the challenges of changing how people do their work to
prioritize equity and the need for intentional and inclusive practices.
Additionally, they share examples of successes in communicating data to
policymakers and the importance of understanding the broader goals and
constituents in decision-making processes.
Everyone
deserves equal access to healthcare and wellness opportunities. This policy
imperative recognizes that not all individuals have equal access to resources,
such as healthcare facilities, education, or economic opportunities, which can
impact their ability to maintain good health.
Here are the answers to the questions
posed in the conversation:
- What does equity mean to you in terms of public policy, public services, and public programs? Equity means ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to be as healthy as possible, regardless of their background or circumstances. It recognizes that not everyone has the same resources and that disparities in health outcomes are driven by social inequities.
Evaluating Challenges and Opportunities for
Healthcare ReformHow do you think about allocation of resources, supporting communities?The conversation does not explicitly discuss the allocation of resources or supporting communities. However, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of inequities and addressing them through intentional and inclusive practices.- How do you engage communities in a genuine way?The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing communities as experts in themselves and engaging them in a genuine way. This involves understanding their needs and perspectives and involving them in the creation of solutions to address inequities.
- What do you see as some of the biggest challenges for the public sector in addressing equity and inequities in all forms?
- The biggest challenges include identifying and addressing root causes of inequities, such as disparate treatment and access to resources. The conversation also emphasizes the need to change how people do their work to prioritize equity and the importance of integrating equity into all aspects of work.
- Can you talk a bit about the powerful role of data in this work?Data play a crucial role in addressing inequities by providing insights into how different communities are impacted and how they can be brought into the creation of solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using data to guide policy development and decision-making.
- Can you talk a bit about some successes you had in communicating to people who control resources or policy decision-makers, communicating data to them in a way?The conversation shares an example of successfully communicating data to policymakers in the context of addressing infant mortality in Detroit. The approach involved presenting data in a way that was easy to understand and actionable, and it led to targeted interventions based on the data.
- Do you have any advice for our learners who are interested in going into data analytics and the public sector, but really do share your core and my core interests in that equity pillar in public service?The conversation advises learners to understand the people and the core work of the organization they are working in, as data is always about the people. It also emphasizes the importance of presenting data in a way that is easy to understand and actionable, and of remembering that data is always about the people and the work.
Discussion
Prompt
The
discussion revolves around various social issues that affect individuals and
communities worldwide. These issues include:
- Healthcare Inequality: The lack of equal access to healthcare services and facilities is a significant problem, leading to health disparities and poor health outcomes. Healthcare workers are leaving the country for better compensation and benefits, further exacerbating the issue.
- Mental Health Stigma: Mental health stigma is a pervasive issue that hinders individuals from seeking support and receiving adequate treatment. It is rooted in societal misconceptions, cultural beliefs, media representations, and inadequate education about mental health. The consequences of stigma include increased suicide rates, reduced treatment adherence, and overall poorer mental health outcomes.
- Homelessness: Homelessness is a significant problem affecting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. The root causes of homelessness include the scarcity of affordable housing, poverty, mental health challenges, and substance abuse. The consequences of homelessness are far-reaching, including increased vulnerability to violence, health issues, and barriers to employment and education.
- Cyclical Poverty: Despite the emphasis on meritocracy and equal opportunities, significant disparities at birth hinder many from competing with the affluent. The wealthy can access more resources for their children, further skewing the playing field in their favour. The tuition industry has become a lucrative opportunity for affluent families to invest in their children's educational development.
- Rural Poverty: Poverty rates in rural areas are significantly higher than in urban areas. The root causes of this problem include economic decline, inadequate infrastructure, and limited public services. The consequences of rural poverty are far-reaching, resulting in poor health outcomes, lower educational attainment, and economic stagnation.
- Housing Affordability and Accessibility: The persistent issue of housing affordability and accessibility for individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and demographics remains a pressing concern. Structural and systemic barriers, including intergenerational wealth disparities, hinder access to housing for marginalized groups. Housing policies and policies affecting the cost of living can exacerbate the issue.
Policy
Agenda Setting and Advocacy
We recently explored the initial stage
of the policy development process, which involves problem identification and
issue framing, with a specific emphasis on addressing public issues related to
inequality and inequity. We will now shift our focus to the crucial stage of
agenda setting, where we identify and prioritize specific issues and problems
to be addressed by organizations and policymakers. A roadmap for moving forward
includes a quick discussion regarding stakeholders and gatekeepers in the
agenda setting process.
Stakeholders encompass individuals,
groups, organizations, and communities that have a vested interest in
government decisions and actions. This encompasses a broad range of interests,
including public policy, public administration, the allocation of resources,
and the performance of government officials, agencies, and programs. Stakeholders
play a crucial role in shaping public policy, as they can either support or
oppose decisions and activities. Their influence extends across all stages of
the policy-making process, including agenda setting. Therefore, we will be
discussing stakeholders in detail There are many different types of
stakeholders. Stakeholders involved in public policy can differ
significantly depending on the issue or problem at hand. However, some key
stakeholders that are consistently present include the government itself,
encompassing elected and appointed officials and staff across all branches of
government. Additionally,
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| Advocacy and Policy Change Evaluation: Theory and Practice |
Gatekeepers work or function at every state of the policy-making process. Oftentimes, gatekeepers are individuals with the power to control narratives and agendas. Gatekeeping, however, sometimes happens through institutional processes or procedures that can permit, refuse, or delay opportunities to influence the policy making process. This includes such things as laws and regulations regarding lobbying, requirements for a certain number of signatures to get an issue on an agenda, or requirements that someone live in a specific area to be able to provide input or have a voice in governmental business or policy-making.
Let's consider a brief scenario to illustrate the stakeholders involved in a particular policy. New York City enacted a law in 2021, introducing new regulations within the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. These new regulations govern the application of automated employment decision tools, commonly referred to as AEDTs. Within the city of New York, employers and employment agencies are subject to new regulations that restrict the use of automated employment decision tools. These tools, which include algorithms, computational models, artificial intelligence, and screening protocols in hiring and promotion, are now prohibited. The regulation mandates that automated employment decision tools can only be utilized after a bias audit has been performed within a year of their implementation. Additionally, the results of these audits and the tools' usage must be publicly disclosed, ensuring transparency and accountability in their application. Job applicants need to be notified and they may request an alternative process. The New York City law, enacted in December 2021, initially planned for a January 2023 rollout. However, due to the overwhelming number of public comments and the need to refine the implementation guidelines, the launch was postponed until April 2023
Identifying the stakeholders involved
in this new law requires understanding the issue it aims to address. The
primary concern is that automated employment decision tools may inadvertently
introduce biases in the hiring process, potentially affecting job applicants, as you might imagine, the concern here is that
the use of these computer decision tools for the review of job applications and
resumes might actually introduce new types of bias into employment decisions. There
is a concern that human evaluators may unintentionally introduce personal
biases and prejudices when reviewing job applications and resumes, potentially
affecting the fairness of the hiring process.
Additionally, there are concerns that
these automated decision-making tools, such as algorithms and AI, may
inherently contain biases, including racial biases. This law aims to increase
transparency by making the use of these tools publicly accessible and also
mandates that those utilizing them conduct thorough assessments to identify and
address any unintentional biases or unforeseen consequences that may arise from
their application
The stakeholders involved in this
policy are diverse and numerous. Key groups include current and potential
employees, particularly those who may be vulnerable to biases in automated
hiring tools. Employers, employment agencies, and brokers are also
significantly impacted by the regulation. Data scientists who develop and
market these tools are another important stakeholder. The government, as the
policy's creator and enforcer, is naturally involved. Additionally, society at
large has a stake in the law's effectiveness, its necessity, and its overall
impact. The collective influence of stakeholders can be amplified when they
collaborate through partnerships and coalitions, sharing common values,
interests, and goals to shape the policy-making process.
The logic is straightforward.
Involving diverse stakeholders enhances consensus, streamlines processes,
boosts the chances of success, refines policy development and execution, and
enhances the credibility and backing for decisions. However, multi-stakeholder
initiatives also come with challenges, such as the financial burden of
coordinating efforts and the significant time commitment required.
Furthermore, successful
multi-stakeholder coalitions necessitate strategic process management and are
influenced by political and power dynamics. A notable example of an effective
coalition is the international joint program on the eradication of female
genital mutilation, led by UNICEF and the United Nations Population Fund. This
coalition has united stakeholders from 17 countries to implement and assess a
multi-year plan. The plan aims to modify policies and laws related to female
genital cutting, as well as empower communities to transform social and gender
norms, enhance girls and women's assets and agency, ensure access to essential
healthcare services, and contribute to a global evidence-based understanding of
the health and social harms associated with this practice.
Who are the Stakeholders of the Issue
You Care About?
To effectively advocate for a cause, consider the following steps, which can be applied across various levels, from internal organizational initiatives to local, state, federal, or international government levels. Today, we will explore the key steps involved in becoming a successful advocate:
Step 1, Identifying the issue, defining and refining
goals, understanding the process and identifying opportunities, understanding
your audience and building alliances, crafting your message, preparing written
materials, advocating, and following up. The initial step is crucial: what
specific problem do you want to address? This may involve conducting research
to become an expert and providing valuable insights to policymakers
Step 2, Clearly articulate your
objective. What specific action do you want the policymaker to take? What is
your policy objective? Are you seeking to modify an existing policy or law, or
maintain the status quo? Is there a new policy or program you wish to
establish? Are your goals short-term, intermediate, or long-term? Can you
achieve your ultimate goal through incremental steps? For instance,
anti-abortion groups successfully passed state-level laws that were later
challenged in court and eventually led to the Dobbs decision. Consider whether
your goal can be achieved through legislation, executive order, or regulation.
Alternatively, you may be educating policymakers for future action. It is
crucial to present a viable solution alongside the problem description. Think
about acceptable alternatives and compromises. Be prepared to offer compromises
on your solution if necessary. Understand the political context, including
limitations such as budget constraints or the political party in power's stance
on your request. Be as specific and detailed as possible.
Step 3, Mastering the process and identifying opportunities is crucial for achieving your policy objective. Determine the applicable process for your goal, considering whether it can be accomplished through legislative, executive, or regulatory means. Each process has distinct steps and opportunities for influence. Within the legislative process, it's essential to understand whether your solution requires authorization or appropriations. Familiarize yourself with each step, including opportunities for advocacy before the legislation is introduced, during committee hearings, bill markup, floor votes, and the conference committee process. Additionally, identify opportunities to communicate your message to decision-makers through personal relationships, in-person or virtual meetings, public hearings, briefings, town hall meetings, and other events. Effective communication can also be achieved through mail, email, grassroots efforts, print media, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, blog posts, and campaign activities.
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| The Power of Self-Advocacy for Gifted Learners: Teaching Four Essential Steps to Success |
Step 4, Understanding your audience and
identifying key allies is crucial when advocating for a cause. Identify the
policymakers and stakeholders who can support your goal, including
organizational leaders such as CEOs and VPs of Community Relations in the
executive branch, and legislative bodies like city councils, county
commissioners, state legislatures, and Congress. Focus on committee assignments
to pinpoint the relevant decision-makers. Research each individual to
understand their background and potential personal connections to the issue.
Schedule meetings by contacting their offices, and utilize publicly available
contact information. Additionally, consider who can effectively convey your
message and build a coalition of allies comprising interest groups, thought
leaders, and constituents. This coalition should include grassroots efforts to
amplify your message and increase its impact
Step 5, Craft a compelling message
that resonates with your decision-maker. Utilize insights gathered during
research to tailor your message to their unique interests, such as personal
connections or district-specific concerns. Different policymakers may respond
more strongly to economic or personal impact statements, so adapt your message
accordingly. Be precise and detailed in outlining the desired policy change,
including specific legislative language or actions. Prepare concise talking
points and rehearse them before meetings to ensure confidence and clarity.
Additionally, anticipate and address potential counterarguments, considering
both the substance and political contexts of the issue.
Step 6, Craft written materials that
effectively communicate your message to decision-makers. Tailor these materials
to the specific audience, as policymakers and their staff are often bombarded
with information on various topics. A concise one-page summary is an effective
advocacy tool, outlining the problem, solution, and supporting evidence.
Prepare packets of information that include relevant documents such as white
papers, press releases, policy briefs, FAQs, fact sheets, academic articles,
and other supporting materials. While hard copies can be useful, electronic
versions are often preferred. This is also an opportunity to review and refine
your talking points, incorporating additional key points as needed.
Step 7, The advocacy phase begins. To
effectively communicate your message, prioritize brevity, clarity, and
concision. Start by summarizing your key points and clearly stating what needs
to change. Maintain integrity, honesty, and respect throughout your
interactions. Respond promptly to requests for additional information and
address any questions honestly, even if you need to research the answer. Keep
in mind that policymakers and their staff are often overwhelmed and schedules
can change at short notice. Be considerate of their time constraints and be
prepared to adapt your approach as needed. Develop a concise elevator pitch to
effectively summarize your message in limited time. Building relationships and
networking are crucial aspects of advocacy. This guide outlines key principles
for effective advocacy communications, whether in-person, virtual, or written.
Always maintain a gracious demeanor and express gratitude for the time spent
with policymakers. Begin by introducing yourself, your organization or cause,
and the purpose of your visit please let me know how I may be helpful to
you or your colleagues.
Step 8, The last step is to ensure a seamless
continuation of your interactions. Always send a thoughtful note or email to
express gratitude for the meeting. Offer your support as a resource, addressing
any additional questions or concerns, and provide electronic access to relevant
information discussed during the meeting. This proactive approach fosters
ongoing communication, allowing you to maintain a strong connection and build
trust with the decision-makers.
Readings & Resources
The following article is published by McKinsey& Company on the
role of advocacy organizations in shaping public policy.
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/learning-to-navigate-the-advocacy-maze
This video provides an overview of coalition efforts to reform the NYC commercial waste system to Commercial waste. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Czj9KBov6LM
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