There's much talk about equity these days, but what the hell is it?
Equity is like making sure everyone gets the same chances in a game, no matter where they start. This is because the starting line isn't ACTUALLY EQUAL.
Imagine you're in a race where some people get to start closer to the finish line. It wouldn't feel fair, would it? But that's how life is. Some folks have more advantages, like money, good schools, or bodies/brains that work in a typical way. Others face relentlessly hard and exhausting challenges because this system that we operate in, doesn't quite cater for the non-typical person.
Research shows that these differences can lead to unfair employment, housing, and income outcomes just by being born a certain way.
But let's get back to the race analogy (love me a good race analogy!); what if those different starting lines weren't because of advantages but were different to counter-balance that person's particular challenges? That, my dears, is equity. This way, everyone has a fair shot at getting to the finish line. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, then this can sometimes look like someone is receiving 'special' treatment, but really, it's just levelling the playing field.
Equity also means ensuring everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their background. Studies have documented that inclusive environments can boost creativity and productivity., Why? Because people from diverse backgrounds bring different perspectives and ideas.
So folks, equity is everyone's responsibility to uphold because, really, who wants to win a race that is rigged? Maybe we should stop racing each other altogether? (hmm, tempting thought…) but seriously, wherever your starting line, let's work together to create a world where everyone gets a fair go at this thing called life.
Peace.
REFERENCES
Duncan, G. J., & Murnane, R. J. (Eds.). (2011). Whither Opportunity?: Rising Inequality, Schools, and Children's Life Chances. Russell Sage Foundation.
Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., & Gardner, M. (2017). Effective teacher professional development. Learning Policy Institute.
Cox, T. (1994). Cultural diversity in organizations: Theory, research, and practice. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler.
Sen, A. (1992). Inequality reexamined. Oxford University Press.
