The United Way of Greenville Racial Equity Index 2020 highlighted the ‘historic systems and policies of white advantage and black oppression’ which have resulted in a legacy of disproportionate outcomes across many health and social measures. The Index reports multiple inequities existing in Greenville County because blacks have not had the same privileges of generational accumulation of wealth and power, they continue to have less opportunity and poorer life outcomes compared to whites. Further, discriminatory practices continue in American society at-large, whether consciously or unconsciously, often determining who has access to opportunities to thrive and who does not. The report finds that Greenville County is worse than almost every county in the nation for helping poor and minority children out of poverty and up the economic mobility ladder.
The findings of this study have sparked important conversations in Greenville County and across the state that have informed and inspired the work of South Carolina Minority Health Center along with many project partners and organizations in Greenville County, the upstate region, and the entire state. These data, taken together with the voices and recommended actions of the people themselves, will inform systems change efforts, the design and implementation of SCMHC programs, practices, and policies that will improve community conditions and people’s lives.
The National Equity Atlas argues that Racial and economic inequality are the defining issues of our time.  Structural inequities are at the center of our national policy debate. Dismantling systemic racism, reversing inequality, and ensuring that all people can participate, prosper, and reach their full potential are key to the success of our economy and our democracy. They report Racism as our most urgent challenge and achieving equity requires developing bold, targeted, race-conscious strategies that eliminate barriers and expand opportunities.