The City of Tacoma recently unveiled a series of compelling case studies that demonstrate the transformative impact of its Equity Index, a tool launched in 2018 to promote equitable outcomes across the city. Presented during the City Council study session, the collection, titled “Equity in Action: Tacoma Equity Index Case Studies, Using Data to Operationalize Equity and Transition into an Antiracist City,” showcases 21 examples of how the Equity Index has driven intentional, data-informed decisions to support Tacoma’s diverse communities.
“Today has been incredibly inspiring. I hope these case studies motivate all of us here in Tacoma to make greater use of the Equity Index for the betterment of our residents,” said Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards. “Additionally, I hope this collection will serve as a valuable playbook for others engaged in similar work. In my conversations with other leaders across the nation, I have heard a need for adaptable and scalable equity strategies for their own communities. This collection demonstrates how the City of Tacoma and its community partners are advancing Tacoma’s shared objectives and experiences with others to expand these efforts.”
The case studies not only highlight success stories but also serve as a resource for city departments, other jurisdictions, community partners, and civic leaders nationwide. The aim is to inspire and guide efforts to increase equity and opportunity for historically marginalized communities. The Equity Index, which uses 34 indicators across categories like livability, accessibility, economy, education, and environmental health, provides a visual map of access to opportunities throughout Tacoma.
Tacoma City Manager Elizabeth Pauli emphasized the significance of the Equity Index in achieving the city’s strategic goals.
“This collection of case studies showcases how City departments have integrated the Equity Index into their daily work, and it provides inspiration for how we can continue to expand the use of this tool while striving to achieve the goals established by the City Council and the Tacoma 2025 strategic plan,” Pauli said. “Our collective efforts to refine the Equity Index since it was established have significantly contributed to the City of Tacoma’s progress in addressing inequities.”
The presentation also featured updates on recent technical improvements to the Equity Index, including new data sets and enhancements for a more intuitive user experience. These updates aim to make the tool even more effective for users in driving equitable decision-making processes.
In recognition of its impact, the Equity Index received the Luminary Award from the New Growth Innovation Network (NGIN) at its biennial Cityscapes Summit in May 2024. The Luminary Award honors projects that advance inclusive economic growth and highlight marginalized communities. Betsey Suchanic, NGIN Inclusive Economic Development Advisor, praised the Equity Index, stating, “The City of Tacoma’s Equity Index, with its profound impact on its decision-making processes, has stood out among the nominations received from NGIN advisors. The City’s dedication to formalizing equity in decision-making, as evidenced by its integration into City legislation, is commendable.”
According to officials, the tool’s ability to provide actionable data and its integration into city policies demonstrate a robust framework for other communities to follow, and helps sets a powerful example for how cities can operationalize equity and transition toward becoming antiracist.
For more information about the Equity Index, including access to the case study collection and the story map, visit cityoftacoma.org/equityindex. Community members with questions can contact the City’s Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, Chelsea Talbert, at [email protected] or (253) 337-7066.