“No One Should Feel Like They’re Unsafe”: Mobility Justice Photovoice as a Youth Advocacy Tool for Equitable Community Mobility

Abstract

Objectives. To examine personal and community mobility challenges and opportunities among youth of color, and identify ways to partner with youth to advance equitable community mobility. Methods. We conducted a community-based participatory research photovoice study using mobility justice principles from November 2020 to May 2021 with 10 youth of color from South Seattle, Washington. We conducted thematic content analysis of verbatim photovoice session transcripts. Results. Youth reported feeling vulnerable riding public transit alongside people experiencing mental health issues, while recognizing the dangers police can bring to communities of color. They identified specific infrastructure changes and free transit to facilitate safe, accessible transportation. They emphasized the importance of youth voice and intergenerational community discussions to inform city decision-making. We co-created an online forum centered on equitable mobility with youth to exchange ideas with their community and city leaders. Conclusions. City leaders and other policymakers should implement policy and infrastructure changes to enhance equitable mobility. They should incorporate youth and mobility justice principles in mobility and transportation decision-making processes, pay youth for their time, employ facilitators of color, and offer technology support.