Integrating Racially and Ethnically Diverse Communities into Planning for Disasters The California Experience

The authors of this study conducted a literature review, environmental scan of organizational website providing preparedness materials for diverse communities, and key informant interviews with public health and emergency management professionals. Using California as a locus of study, the objective was to identify challenges and barriers to meeting the preparedness needs of racially and ethnically diverse communities, and highlight promising strategies, gaps in the programs, and future priorities. Impact: Results identified at least four intervention priorities for California and across the United States: engaging diverse communities in all aspects of emergency planning, implementation, and evaluation; mitigating fear and stigma; building organizational cultural competence; and enhancing coordination of information and resources.