Purpose Disparities between Black and White communities in the U.S. stem from a deep-rooted history of racist and discriminatory policies that have perpetuated inequities across multiple social dimensions. This form of racism, i.e., structural racism, has disproportionately impacted Black communities by limiting their access to housing, income and wealth through employment opportunities, education, voting, and healthcare. Despite widespread recognition of the impact of structural racism, a standardized methodology for quantifying its manifestation at the population/neighborhood level remains a challenge. To address this critical need, we developed an index of structural racism and discrimination (SRD), the first national, place-based, and community-informed measure.
Objectives and Activities This interactive workshop will introduce participants to the SRD Index, designed to evaluate the impact of structural racism across key social dimensions in states and counties over 40 years. Participants will gain insights into the index’s data sources, methodology, and applications. A live demonstration will highlight its interactive data visualization tool, illustrating how to interpret SRD impact scores across dimensions such as residential segregation, housing, income, healthcare, and incarceration. Hands-on activities will enable participants to explore geographical patterns and practical applications in research, policy development, and advocacy.
Expected Outcomes By the end of this workshop, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate and utilize the SRD Index tool, interpret its scores, download data, and apply related data in academic research, policy analysis, and advocacy efforts.
Workshop Materials Participants will need a laptop or a tablet to access the SRD Index tool (link will be provided). Printed or digital handouts summarizing key concepts will be available to support learning.
Authors Debs (Debarchana) Ghosh, Sabina Bhandari University of Connecticut, Department of Geography, Sustainability, Community, and Urban Studies
Devlon Nicole Jackson, Cheryl L. Knott University of Maryland School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral and Community Health
