By Christal E. Carmichael, LCMHC 

Division of Race Equity  Program Manager, Wake County Government

In a perfect world, we could pinpoint exactly what is needed to address the inequities in our community. We could call out the systems in place and provide a roadmap for targeted actions required to accomplish our race equity goals.

The Economic Mobility Index does just that! It provides a data-driven report that complements the Blueprint for Dismantling Systemic Racism and demonstrates opportunities to collaborate for meaningful change. It tells us where our community stands, and where the inequities still remain.

This study is directly aligned with the Blueprint for Dismantling Systemic Racism. It helps to identify and address disparities in many of the same areas that are outlined in the Blueprint.

“Data is not just numbers. It’s the story of our community’s progress, setbacks, and our roadmap to achieving racial equity.”

The Economic Mobility Index doesn’t just align with the Blueprint — it enhances it. When you think about the findings on income inequality, educational attainment, and homeownership rates among BIPOC populations, this report provides the critical details that explain the “why” of the Blueprint’s goals around economic mobility and education equity.

Within the Economic Mobility Index, there are highlights of persistent income gaps and disparities in business ownership among BIPOC populations. Data on educational attainment gaps reinforces the need for policies promoting equitable funding and access to quality education for Black and Brown children.

“Our children’s futures shouldn’t be determined by their zip code. We need equitable resources to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

This is a robust study with so many opportunities to further explore some of the critical details, collaborate, and drive race equity work forward. Some of the opportunities could include:

• Establishing a partnership for regular data sharing to strengthen both the Blueprint’s Data Dashboard and future Economic Mobility Index updates.
• Using the findings from both tools to advocate for impactful policies at the local and state levels.
• Leveraging the data to foster meaningful dialogue and action within the community through public forums, workshops, and collaborative projects.
• Developing a joint framework with measurable outcomes to monitor and evaluate progress over time.

As we pursue the Blueprint goals and objectives, here are a few questions to consider:

How do multiple identities intersect to compound disadvantage in Wake County?

• What are the long-term trends in economic mobility metrics for BIPOC populations, and how do they compare to the progress made through Blueprint initiatives?
• What are the local policies that continue to influence economic mobility outcomes?
• Beyond the data mentioned in the Index, what do BIPOC residents think about progress in the four areas that are highlighted in both reports?

The Economic Mobility Index is more than just a study; it is a catalyst for change. Aligning with the Blueprint for Dismantling Systemic Racism, allows for new pathways for collaboration, action, and measurable progress toward racial equity in Wake County.

We want to invite you to Get Involved! Here are some of the many ways you can contribute to this most important race equity work:

• Participate in our upcoming public forums and share your perspective. (Include link to Race Equity Newsletter)
• Reach out within your organization, community gatherings, and local policymakers and express your support for policies that promote racial equity.
• Attend our events and invite others to attend with you.

Together, we can build a community where every resident, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive.