7. Diversity: Socioeconomic Status
Although socioeconomic status is not recognized as a protected group, it impacts the ability to access our programs in a variety of ways including ability to pay for workshops, access to high speed internet services, or the ability to travel for onsite programming.
What is socioeconomic status?
Socioeconomic status (SES), often referred to as class, is a combination of income, education, wealth and occupation. It also refers to some of the less measurable factors often associated with poverty such as lack of a supportive community environment, and high stress levels associated with finding adequate food, shelter, and clothing.
In 2007-2008, the US Census shows that Maine’s poverty rate was at 12.4% of the population below the poverty line. In 2013, poverty in Maine peaked at 14.7%. The Maine median household income remains below the national average, as it has since 2000 (Poverty in Maine, Update December 2011, Vol. 3, Issue 1).
What you can do?
- When choosing a program location, time, or method of delivery, consider whether those who have limited resources would have difficulty attending.
- Communicate your program content in a manner that is relatable and understandable to all.
- Include a range of occupations or socioeconomic lifestyles in your examples when you speak, write, or put up displays.
(Based on No Class examples)