Hidden Vulnerabilities: Exploring the Potential Impacts of a Disaster on Marginalized Communities in East San José, California

Immigrants in low-income communities are one of many groups who have historically been excluded from emergency planning. These groups experience acute forms of vulnerability and greater exposure to environmental hazards. This is often compounded by a lack of understanding—by policymakers, disaster scientists, and other city officials—of the needs, concerns, assets, and vulnerabilities of this population. In partnership with Amigos de Guadalupe Center for Justice and Empowerment in San José, California, I conducted four focus groups with immigrant community members to discuss hazards and vulnerability from their perspectives. In the process, I learned how safety concerns, access to resources, leadership, discrimination, and increasing living costs not only constitute hazards but are exacerbated in crisis situations. We also discussed how social vulnerabilities influence their ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. Through this community-centered approach, I aim to bridge a gap in knowledge between disaster researchers and the public, to aid in developing inclusive disaster preparedness and response strategies.