Equiticity: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Equiticity is a non-profit organization and social movement dedicated to promoting racial equity, mobility justice, and community empowerment, primarily in Black and Brown communities across Chicago and beyond. Founded in 2017 by Olatunji Oboi Reed, Equiticity has become an influential advocate for transportation equity and racial justice. The organization operates with the mission to enhance the quality of life for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) residents through innovative programs, advocacy, and research. As you dive into the following sections, you'll uncover the multifaceted nature of Equiticity and its contributions towards fostering a more equitable society.

1. The Vision and Mission

Equiticity envisions a society where racial equity is fully integrated into every aspect of city life, including policy and resource allocation. The organization aims to operationalize racial equity by harnessing collective power through community-based initiatives, research, and advocacy. The mission highlights the importance of addressing systemic inequities that have historically marginalized communities of color, particularly within the realms of transportation and urban planning.

2. Olatunji Oboi Reed: Catalyst for Change

The driving force behind Equiticity is its founder, Olatunji Oboi Reed, a seasoned advocate for racial and environmental justice. Reed's personal journey, marked by a transformation through cycling and connecting with nature, inspired him to create a movement that leverages mobility as a tool for social change. His previous experience with Slow Roll Chicago set the stage for Equiticity, focusing on promoting biking and non-motorized transport as means for community cohesion and empowerment.

3. Community Mobility Rituals

One of Equiticity's flagship initiatives is the Community Mobility Rituals (CMRs), which are designed to normalize biking, walking, and public transit within marginalized neighborhoods. These events aim to increase social cohesion and physical activity among residents while highlighting local cultural assets. The rituals serve as a model for how communities can use mobility as a catalyst for social change and improved health outcomes.

4. The GoHub: A Community Resource

Equiticity is developing The GoHub, a community mobility center located in North Lawndale. This hub will provide residents access to environmentally friendly transportation options, job training, and a space for community gatherings. The GoHub embodies Equiticity's commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable infrastructure that meets the unique needs of the communities it serves.

5. Mobility Opportunities Fund

Established in collaboration with ComEd, the Mobility Opportunities Fund offers stipends to residents of North Lawndale to purchase eco-friendly mobility solutions like e-bikes and electric vehicles. This initiative not only fosters climate resilience but also addresses the transportation access disparities faced by low-to-moderate-income communities.

6. Advocacy and Policy Impact

Equiticity's advocacy work focuses on improving transportation equity and safety while challenging systemic barriers. The organization is actively involved in policy discussions and collaborates with the Free To Move Coalition to address police harassment in biking and other transportation contexts. Their research into this area helps shape policies that reduce racial inequities in transportation.

7. Partnerships and Collaborations

Equiticity collaborates with various organizations to amplify its impact, including local entities like the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization and national partners like Main Street America. These partnerships enable Equiticity to expand its reach and influence in advocating for equitable policies and infrastructure.

8. Innovative Workforce Development

Through programs like BikeForce, Equiticity provides workforce development opportunities focusing on emerging transportation technologies. This initiative targets high school students, offering skills training and apprenticeships in the e-mobility sector, equipping them for future careers in sustainable transportation.

9. Research and Data-Driven Approaches

Research is central to Equiticity's strategy, guiding their advocacy and programmatic work. Projects like "Biking While Black" highlight the disparities in cycling infrastructure and enforcement experienced by riders in Black and Brown communities. These insights inform the organization's efforts to craft more equitable transportation solutions.

10. Future Prospects and Ongoing Challenges

Equiticity continues to explore new avenues for advancing racial equity, focusing on broadening its impact through education, advocacy, and community engagement. The organization faces challenges in scaling its initiatives and securing sustained funding, yet remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of mobility justice.

Conclusion

Equiticity represents a powerful movement for change, addressing systemic inequities and promoting a vision of urban spaces that prioritize racial equity and mobility justice. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and a strong advocacy platform, Equiticity is not only transforming communities in Chicago but also providing a model for cities nationwide. As the organization looks to the future, its work poses important questions about how societies can build more inclusive and equitable environments for all residents.