Procedural Vulnerability and Its Effects on Equitable Post-Disaster Recovery in Low-Income Communities

Problem, research strategy, and findings Equity is a major goal in post-disaster recovery reconstruction. However, although extensive demonstrates the connections between race/class heightened vulnerability to disasters, few examine or name mechanisms responsible for this correlation. Such are referred as procedural vulnerabilities historical ongoing power relations that lead inequitable outcomes. We interrogate role of generating by analyzing LUPE et al. v. FEMA (B:08-cv-487 [2008]). This legal case emerged from experiences colonia residents Río Grande Valley South Texas following Hurricane Dolly 2008. From case, we found that, first, Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) unclear definitions deferred maintenance insufficient damages negatively affected low-income households. Second, even with clear definitions, reconstruction outcomes would remain due historic patterns disinvestment colonias.Takeaway practice two key implications planners emerge. First, must acknowledge concerns facing communities color funding. Unincorporated less likely be able access strong environmental planning, placing them at higher risk disaster. local stigma surrounding can greatly influence efficacy predetermining who not “deserving” assistance. Engaging histories racism prejudice addressing redressing these inequities.