Equity

A region where all residents have equitable access to high-quality education, jobs and housing.

Economic outcomes vary for different demographic groups in the Charleston region. Unemployment is over 50% higher for Black residents than white.

Sources: American Community Survey, Census 2019, SB Friedman

Percent Change in Regional Low Wage Jobs by County, Compared to Jan. 2020

Inequitable job and income losses

Employment disruptions throughout the pandemic have been felt most acutely by workers earning the lowest wages. Despite overall employment exceeding pre-pandemic levels in all counties in August 2021, low-wage employment data still shows substantial declines.

Sources: Opportunity Insights Tracker, SB Friedman

WHAT WE HEARD

Equity, housing, jobs, education and wages essential to survey respondents

Survey feedback from both household and business respondents emphasized the desire for an equitable economic recovery.

Source: One Region Roadmap 2021 Household & Business Survey, SB Friedman