Heer Virwani
Inequity and inequality come in many forms in Victoria de Durango. It can be seen economically, in an unequal income distribution, and how statistically men are more likely to be labeled as the head of households/person of reference, by 63.7% of all households in the city. Poverty is another form of inequality in the city, with 2% of the population being in extreme poverty, and 30% in moderate poverty. Within these two groups, three major social deprivations were recorded, which were food access, social security, and health services. These inequalities within the city do not allow the city to progress for a brighter future. If we are unable to help everyone flourish, the city will not flourish. To combat these issues of inequity, we have to first begin by finding the source of the problem. These problems can be because of the unequal income distribution between residents of the cities. The ones that are gender-related can stem from values and what is taught to the youth of the city. To be able to combat these issues from the root, we must educate the people of the existence of these issues, and also educate them to no longer contribute to this issue, if they are.
Setting up workshops around the city that primarily cater to youth on ongoing challenges faced in their communities, and how we can prevent these issues entirely whilst aid those who are affected. These workshops would especially help tackle gender inequalities in their society. Although the main audience is the youth of the city, it would not hurt to also allow older people to attend these workshops, as learning can be done at any age.
To combat issues that involve monetary imbalances, such as unequal income distribution, this is something that needs to be taken up to the legal powers in the city. In Durango, 10% of first decile households, low income, make an average of $10.8k as their quarterly income. The 10% of tenth decile households, high income, make an average of $173k in the same amount of time. This clear imbalance is something that needs to be tackled at city-wide level, which is best done when involving bigger powers in the city. Passing redistributive policies can be great ways to reduce inequality in this sector. This can be something like a more progressive tax system. Not only do such policies have a direct impact on the monetary imbalances, but oftentimes also bring benefits in other areas, such as more investments in education.
When we are able to reduce inequality in society, that sets us apart from each other, we take steps closer to creating a community in which we feel and are equal. This is incredibly important in our vision. This project is not only to promote an environmentally sustainable future for Durango, but a future that is sustainable in all aspects, including society.
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