Happy New Year! The REP has resolved to promote fact-based, race inequity arguments. Why? Unless decision-makers are confronted with hard data, claims of race inequity are often dismissed as anecdotal or diverted by side arguments. Worse yet, arguments founded on theory or policy afford parties the opportunity to revert to their respective ideological camps thus foreclosing the opportunity of productive dialogue. Fact-based arguments remove the wiggle room; they force decision-makers to address the evidence as you frame it.
The REP has a three-step process for creating fact-based arguments using data: (1) Identify the appropriate data source; (2) Obtain and analyze the relevant data; (3) Present the data in an understandable format.
Identifying the Appropriate Data Source
Even though data is more accessible then ever, finding the right data source can be a daunting task. With so much data available, how do you find what you need? The REP’s Data & Demographics page lists a host of data sets useful for race-based advocacy. The page includes a synopsis of the data, suggested uses, and even a few time saving tips. We also try to evaluate the credibility of a given data set. Still can’t find what you need? LSNC provides a massive list of data sources relevant to a variety of poverty practice areas. Remember, the data most favorable to your position may not be the best choice if your audience doesn’t think it’s from a credible source. Choose your data source wisely.
Obtain and Analyze Data
Obtaining data is often as simple as familiarizing yourself with a given website. The learning curves can be steep but take solace in the fact that learning how to use a site is like learning to ride a bicycle… you never forget. As far as analysis, don’t concern yourself too much with issues that are properly left to statisticians. When people examine your data they will want to know (1) its source and (2), on rare occasions, the raw numbers. Outside the context of litigation, your data analysis will likely not be subject to further scrutiny.
Data Presentation
It’s all about the presentation! Nothing puts an audience to sleep faster than a list of data. We suggest presenting data using graphs, charts or maps. Excel or web-based mapping applications are an excellent tool for this. Lastly, don’t get caught up in minutia. A data presentation should tell a simple, understandable story. Any superfluous points should be left out.
Contact the REP if you would like to see examples of our data presentations.
In The News
We know it isn’t much but it would be hard to find find two more reputable recommendations.
Poverty Law News, National Center on Poverty Law, December 8, 2006.
- “Legal Services of Northern California has launched a website for the Race Equity Project. The Project will digest, implement, evaluate and disseminate race-based advocacy resources and will facilitate a more efficient and effective delivery of race-based advocacy.”
Housing Task Force Update “News Update”, Western Center on Law and Poverty, No. 57 January 2007.
- “Created to develop a strategy to coordinate race conscious advocacy in the legal services community, the Race Equity Project provides invaluable information.”
A Call for Research Projects
We have externs! The REP wants to know what you need and assign work accordingly. Do you have a race-related memo or research project that you need? Do you lack the time or resources to start it? Does the project or memo have broad appeal? Share your idea with us and we will see if we can make it a reality.
Thursday ~ May 8, 2008