(De)politicization of municipal DEI

Interest convergence in policy-making

Bibliographic Data

ID24219087
AuthorsCaitlin Downie (0000-0001-7961-9866, Lancaster University)
Year2026
Pages1-18
Publication date2026-10-02
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Race Ethnicity and the City (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2688-4674 • E-ISSN: 2688-4682
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/26884674.2026.2733017
OpenAlexW7216443552
LanguageEN
References cited25

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies have emerged as a common practice among local governments in response to calls from community advocates to address racism and inequities. This paper examines when and how municipal DEI plans are leveraged to address racism and advance equity. A document analysis of DEI plans, participant observation, and interviews with DEI practitioners and community advocates were conducted in Alberta municipalities. The research addresses a gap in the literature by examining DEI policy through a CRT lens at the local government level and highlighting small and mid-sized cities. The findings suggest that the implementation of DEI plans is related to the level of interest convergence between local governments and community advocates. I conclude that DEI plans can be leveraged to address systemic inequities, so long as they are integrated into municipal operations, are supported with resources, and have sustainable actions.

community advocates · Critical race theory · depoliticization · diversity, equity, and inclusion · interest convergence · Local government · policy implementation · Racism · small and medium-sized cities · systemic inequities · Public Policy and Administration Research · Race, History, and American Society · Urban Planning and Governance

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