Mapping for Equity (M4E) Project

About

Mapping for Equity is a civics and data literacy program that teaches the public how to see data while collecting data on New York City’s under-mapped and under-represented public spaces.

Through this project, we are asking, “How can data make the city work for ALL New Yorkers?” First, we hypothesize that we can start data and civic literacy by teaching people how to see data and services in the public spaces we all enjoy.

Second, we hypothesize that by getting more people to use and contribute to open data resources like OpenStreetMap (OSM)—we can document critical information about our communities that anyone can use to engage, advocate, legislate, and beyond.

In addition to making public space information digitally accessible, we are packaging our mapping processes into a curriculum and event production mapping toolkit that is open to all—from everyday citizens to groups for advocacy and elected officials to do this work in their own spaces, and use what they find to advocate for more equal open spaces for all.

This toolkit teaches civic and digital literacy, introduces mapping as a concept and tool for civic change, and allows anyone to document their local, public resources.