Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1367404
14 An Equity Profile of Orange County: Summary 7 10 10 +1 8 9 Promote immigrant integration. To improve outcomes for all, Orange County must look at ways to ensure that immigrants are welcomed, gain economic mobility, and participate in local civic decisions. One approach to promoting immigrant integration is to institutionalize a commitment within county and city governments by establishing an office or position that is tasked with integrating services across multiple departments and developing and maintaining relationships with immigrant-serving nonprofits. Encouraging naturalization among those who are eligible is also an important way to garner greater security for immigrant families—in addition to broader economic and civic benefits to society. Build civic health among underrepresented voices. The region's health is tied to its civic health. Increasing community engagement among racial/ethnic groups that have been historically underrepresented in decision-making brings in the voices of those who are often most impacted by policy change. Supporting non-profit organizations and other trusted local institutions who are most attune to the needs and concerns of the community can ensure policies are truly addressing equity. Build a culture in which racial equity is discussed and is a shared goal. Discussing issues of race and racism can be uncomfortable, but this is a necessary step in working towards equity. To improve outcomes for all, Orange County should acknowledge the history that led to today's racialized gaps, develop partnerships that center on the perspectives of vulnerable populations, and keep an eye towards mitigating future inequities. Rooting the conversation in data can help business leaders, funders, government officials, and community-based organizations create a sustained dialogue around race and racial equity. Partner with peer regions pursuing similar goals. Orange County is not alone in facing the imperatives of equity and growth. Regions across the country are facing the challenge of balancing economic prosperity with inclusion—and overcoming political polarization and social divides in doing so. For example, in Oklahoma City, a diverse regional collaboration—with leadership from Republican mayors and a conservative Chamber of Commerce—committed to turn around the region's trajectory of economic decline in the 1980s and early 1990s. They did so by gaining consensus on the importance of taxes in supporting public expenditures on quality of life and educational improvements. Peer exchanges with other regions could be helpful in educating and inspiring Orange County leaders. Develop a regional equity strategy, indicators of progress, and a data system for measuring progress. Looking forward, Orange County is poised to develop a county-wide strategy that centers racial and economic equity practices. The region's relative prosperity means that it can pursue a bold strategy that addresses inequities in order to set the stage for decades of equitable growth. Developing an ongoing system for tracking progress over time can help to keep equity as a county-wide goal. What is not measured will not be achieved—yet measurement and data alone are not enough. Now is the time for bold leadership and first steps to ensure Orange County is on a path to prosperity, inclusion, and improved outcomes for all.