Understanding Social Equity From the Perspective of Local Emergency Managers: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

For more than 50 years public administration has argued the inherent value of social equity in public service provision. But, the discipline still has not reached a consensus on what social equity is academically or professionally. This is also the case in the academic discipline of emergency management, which is a public endeavor, that argues that dealing with social vulnerabilities through a social equity lens is needed. As such, this field note, which is a preliminary exploratory study, explores the concept of social equity and its perceived meaning and value among local emergency managers (EMs) within the United States prior to the 2024 Presidential election. Through the administration and analysis of a national survey of local emergency managers, we explore how EMs define social equity, the importance they attribute to it, and the resources they need to enhance its pursuit within their jurisdictions. Preliminary findings highlight that there is a great deal of variation in how EMs define social equity and its inherent value, in addition to what elements of social equity are important. Subsequent to providing our preliminary findings in this field note, recommendations for future research, training and professional practice are offered.