CITY OF PITTSBURGH AND THE BLACK EQUITY COALITION DATA JUSTICE WORKING GROUP TO LAUNCH COMMUNITY DATA JUSTICE COLLABORATIVE
The collaborative intends to include historically excluded communities in shaping how data is collected, shared, and used
Pittsburgh, PA – The City of Pittsburgh and the Black Equity Coalition (BEC) Data Justice Working Group are proud to announce the formation of the Community Data Justice Collaborative (CDJC) as a part of the Data Justice Project. This project, an initiative of the de Beaumont Foundation’s MADE for Health Justice Program, is designed to ensure that marginalized and historically excluded communities have a seat at the table in shaping how data is collected, shared, and used. The Collaborative was created following a transparent, open nomination process, drawing on input from communities that are often underrepresented or misrepresented in data.
“Pittsburgh is made up of many diverse communities, but we know that that in most cases not everyone is afforded a seat at the table. This is our way of saying no more. As we seek to make decisions that impact our residents, we want to be sure that the data we collect is inclusive of everyone, and this initiative will ensure that,” said Mayor Ed Gainey.
The Community Data Justice Collaborative (CDJC) is a groundbreaking effort by the city and the BEC to include democratic input on data governance. The Collaborative brings together a diverse group of 12-18 members selected from a wide pool of community-nominated candidates. The committee overseeing the selection process prioritized individuals and organizations that represent communities often excluded from the data landscape—ensuring the Collaborative reflects a wide range of voices, experiences, and expertise.
“We know that data shapes decisions affecting everything from public policy to health outcomes. The Community Data Justice Collaborative ensures that those most impacted by these decisions are also helping to define how the data is collected and used. This is not just about representation—it’s about real influence,” said Bobbie Fan, Data Justice Project Director.
The announcement of the CDJC follows the selection of the Larimer Consensus Group for the Data Justice Project’s Neighborhood Power Building Initiative. The Neighborhood Power Building initiative will engage residents to develop a health improvement plan, building resident power towards improving the quality of housing and the built environment.
“We are so excited to have this Power Building Initiative take place in the City of Pittsburgh,” said Darius Wallace, City of Pittsburgh Administrative and Project Coordinator. “It's important that we continue to create opportunities for our most marginalized residents to have meaningful participation in the design and implementation of the public systems that serve them.”
The BEC will host the Data Justice Project Launch as a way to share more about the vision for the project and to engage in meaningful dialogue about building data systems that center equity and justice. The media is invited to attend the launch on November 14, 2024, from 5:30-7:30 PM and the Kingsley Center (6435 Frankstown Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206).
The launch event will feature:
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A welcome address introducing the goals of the Data Justice Project
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An introduction to the Larimer Consensus Group, the BEC’s partner on the Neighborhood Power Building Initiative
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A chance to learn more about the Community Data Justice Collaborative
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Opportunities for community input and networking over food
About the Black Equity Coalition
The BEC is a coalition of physicians, social scientists, civic community leaders, philanthropists and academics who are committed to working on matters of racial equity by addressing the Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) in Black and Brown communities.
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