The concept of equity acknowledges that different individuals or groups may start from different positions and may require different levels of support to reach the same outcomes. It is often contrasted with the concept of equality, which assumes that treating everyone the same will lead to fairness. Achieving equity involves addressing systemic barriers and creating inclusive policies and practices to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Equity and equality are related, but they are not the same. To learn more about what distinguishes the two terms, read this short article that explains with examples!
For more insight into equity and equality in the workplace, check out this conversation as Beth Ridley further explains how equity and equality differ, while also describing how the two terms complement each other.
Watch this TEDx Talk to learn about the importance of equity in the field of education and early professional development. Jeff Harding discusses how SAT scores correlate to socioeconomic status and other ways that socioeconomic status impacts equity in education!
Self- Reflective Questions:
- What topics other than work and education is equity relevant to?
- What are some ways you can promote equity in your personal and professional lives?