LWVSA Study of Economic Inequity

To examine the effects of the current degree of inequality on the people and future of Bexar County

Using public records, focus groups and open meetings, media reports and interviews, we will attempt to gather both quantitative and qualitative data on the effects of income inequality, especially generational poverty, on our community and its potential.

To examine possible public policies that might remedy these conditions 

Finally, having identified probable contributing factors, we will look for ways of altering those factors. Our focus will be on public policy initiatives that might be taken at the local, state, or even federal level to alleviate the conditions found.

Economic Inequity Study Virtual Forums

The following four videos contain progress reports on that study. The videos were recorded as the team presented its findings in virtual forums to members and others.

• Forum one provided an overview of how wealth has migrated to the richest among us over the past four decades and reviewed the consequences of inequity: 1) Reduced individual opportunity; 2) Greater political influence among the rich; 3) Reduced economic growth; 4) Defiance of our national values; 5) Impaired health; and 6) Shortened lives. The forum also explored the contribution of regressive national, state, and local tax policies to inequity.
• Forum two reviewed the importance of education and childcare in economic equity. A strong correlation exists between educational attainment and economic success. A correlation also exists between the quality of early childhood experience and success in school.
• Forum three considered the importance of a range of workforce issues, from minimum wages to union membership and the enforcement of labor laws. It also reviewed the impact of our criminal justice system on the life prospects of so many people.
• Forum four dealt with the key issues of health and housing. Poverty has a huge negative affect on both issues. 

The study is ongoing. It should be completed in early 2022. Continue following this site to stay informed. Feel free to reach out to the committee members with any questions or suggestions. Contact information is included in the presentations.

First Virtual Information Forum

Forum one, held on April 28, 2021, provided an overview of how wealth has migrated to the richest among us over the past four decades and reviewed the consequences of inequity: 1) Reduced individual opportunity; 2) Greater political influence among the rich; 3) Reduced economic growth; 4) Defiance of our national values; 5) Impaired health; and 6) Shortened lives. The forum also explored the contribution of regressive national, state, and local tax policies to inequity.

Economic Inequity Forum 1 Slides (pdf, 10MB)

Second Virtual Information Forum

Forum two, held on May 26, 2021, reviewed the importance of education and childcare in economic equity. A strong correlation exists between educational attainment and economic success. A correlation also exists between the quality of early childhood experience and success in school.

Economic Inequity Forum 2 Slides (pdf, 10MB)

Third Virtual Information Forum

Forum three, held on June 23, 2021, considered the importance of a range of workforce issues, from minimum wages to union membership and the enforcement of labor laws. It also reviewed the impact of our criminal justice system on the life prospects of so many people.

Economic Inequity Forum 3 Slides (pdf, 8MB)

Fourth Virtual Information Forum

Forum four, held on July 28, 2021, dealt with the key issues of health and housing. Poverty has a huge negative affect on both issues. 

Economic Inequity Forum 4 Slides (pdf, 5MB)