Even When We Win, We Lose: Participating While Poor in the Policy Process

• In Event: Participation and Policy Responsiveness in Cities

Abstract

This paper explores how resource poor groups participate in the policy process and the impacts of their engagement. Utilizing a qualitative data set on public school closures in Chicago and Philadelphia - where nearly 90% of the population targeted were Black and low income - I show how the policy process forges a shared identity that is used by the school district, and local organizations, to distribute resources critical for activating participation among those affected. Their participation, albeit under dismal circumstances, contributes to the development of civic skills and internal efficacy, regardless of whether they secure the public goods for which they are participating to protect. The findings suggest that when citizens from resource poor backgrounds receive support in the form of collective resources, they can, and do, participate, and from their participation they gain important lessons for future engagement. Yet, the status quo remains unchanged.

Author

• Sally Nuamah