The word “equity” is being used a lot lately. But what, exactly, do we mean when we say it in the context of the Portland Plan?

Like the term “sustainability,” equity has social, economic and environmental meanings. At its core, it is about fairness and equal opportunity for all. So when we look at access to affordable housing and healthy food, safe streets and a good education, we want these to be available to all Portlanders, regardless of who they are, where they come from or how much money they make.

Portland Plan partners are committed to addressing issues of equity by acknowledging historic disparities and prioritizing resources and investments to address them in the Portland Plan. Ensuring equity for all Portlanders will mean evaluating projects and policies in terms of who benefits from them.

For instance, a program that reduces utility bills for homeowners through weatherization assistance would have provisions for renters as well. This is a good example of thinking about equity.

As we develop the Portland Plan together, we have the chance to creatively address equity issues that affect everyone who lives here. Portland Plan community meetings and other forms of engagement will allow us to come to a greater understanding of how we can make sure Portland is a thriving and sustainable city and that all our people are prosperous, healthy and educated.