Equity Development in Chicago: Robert Mier's Ideas and Practice

Abstract

Robert Mier (1942-1995) influenced planning and economic development during his career as professor Chicago economic development official, and consultant. He developed a vision and practice based on social justice and equity. In economic development, he emphasized job creation, the role of community organizations, and the importance of race issues. For planning generally, he called attention to the importance of leadership and the use of metaphors and stories in generating social change. His work also illustrates dilemmas that all planners face: the nature of knowledge required in practice, the tension between long-term goals and short-term opportunities, and the problem of being a practitioner and being a credible commentator on that practice at the same time. Mier's legacy is his profound challenge to maintain a moral vision of an equity agenda while working pragmatically in the day-to-day context of political reality.