Food desert
A geographic area where residents have limited access to affordable and nutritious food, particularly such an area composed of predominantly lower-income neighborhoods and communities (Adapted from USDA’s Food Access Research Atlas). Some researchers and community food advocates suggest alternative terminology such as “food swamp” or “food apartheid” where an overabundance of unhealthy choices inundate healthy […]
Food equity
When all people, regardless of race, income, neighborhood or immigration status, have reliable access to nutritious food that supports their well-being. (Source: Adapted from Partnership for a Healthier America)
Food insecurity
A household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food. (Source: USDA)
Food security
When people have access to enough safe and nutritious food for normal growth and development, and an active and healthy life. (Source: World Food Programme)
Gentrification
Reinvestment of capital at an urban center, which is designed to produce space for a more affluent (high-income) class of people than currently occupies the space. (Source: Adapted from Neil Smith in Dictionary of Human Geography, 2000)
Historical inequity
Refers to how, over time, inequitable investment and service can create vast disparities, or differences, between communities. These differences are visible in air quality, traffic congestion, mobility, housing, open space options, food access, quality infrastructure and few community development opportunities. (Source: LA Metro Office of Equity and Race definition)
Inclusion
The intentional act of creating environments in which all individuals/groups feel and are empowered and welcomed as a valued member. Authentically bringing traditionally excluded individuals and/or groups into processes, activities and decision/policy making in a way that shares power; values each individual’s or group’s heritage, contributions and aspirations; and guarantees full belonging to all interested […]
Justice
A concept referring to a community or society where underlying barriers are removed, all people enjoy access to opportunities and disparities do not exist. (Source: LA Metro Office of Equity and Race definition)
Land use
The designation of the type, intensity and general distribution of uses of land for housing, business, industry, open space, education, public buildings and grounds, waste disposal facilities and other categories of public and private uses. (Source: Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation General Plan Guidelines)
Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
Describes individuals who (a) do not speak English as their primary language and (b) have a limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English. Individuals with LEP may be competent in English for certain types of communication (e.g., speaking or understanding) but have limited proficiency in English in other areas (e.g., reading or writing). […]