. . . Then The Equal Treatment Of Unequals.
Markus Schöberl
I first heard the phrase, ‘There is nothing more unequal than the equal treatment of unequals, ‘ from a professor in graduate school. It stuck in my head, and I’ve used it many times over the years. Some credit it to Aristotle. Regardless, it’s another way of saying ‘equity.’
People often use the terms “equity” and “equality” interchangeably when discussing matters related to race and social justice. While both terms have to do with fairness, there are key differences as the application of one over the other may lead to drastically different outcomes. While equality requires that everyone receives the same resources and opportunities, regardless of circumstances and despite any inherent advantages or disadvantages that apply to certain groups, on the other hand, equity considers the specific needs or circumstances of a person or group and provides the types of resources needed to be successful.
In today’s world, one hears the term equity often sandwiched between ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusion’ DEI. DEI programs are much more than a passing fad. They are a framework for engaging an organization’s full strength. However, since Trump has taken over the GOP, such programs are being dismantled. That pace has been accelerated after the US Supreme Court handed down their decision striking down affirmative action this past June and casting many other diversity programs into doubt.
Don’t just listen to me; you can read more about DEI at Stanford Social Innovation Review and decide on its value.
— kenne
