EQUITY AND EQUALITY
In Focus
"See more clearly when you are informed"
Equity vs. Equality Below you will find key terms, statistics, and other useful tools to understand and talk about Equity vs. Equality. If you would like to know more, consider coming to an IYC event. Our next one can be found below in the section labeled Our Events. We host them virtually, on a wide range of topics, discussing policy, civics, and current events.
Key Terms You Should Know
Equity Gap:
Occurs when there is a split in a data point like graduation rate occurring along racial, socioeconomic, or other major demographic grouping. Approaching this from an equality standpoint in which everyone receives the same resources could explain this disparity; approaching this from an equity standpoint in which accommodations are available could address the disparity. Need based financial aid for college students is an example.
Perspective:
One’s point of view, standpoint, or way of seeing b/c of one’s experiences & who a person is. Perspective can sometimes reflect privilege or advantages we may not be aware of having related to our group membership. From the standpoint of having privilege, equality seems reasonable b/c you don’t always realize other’s needs outside of your own perspective. For example, someone without allergies is not necessarily aware/considerate of the importance of listing allergens on food labels.
Emotion Tax:
The mental/emotional burden people can experience, particularly marginalized group members who may feel defensive against bias and discrimination particularly at work.
Stereotypes:
Associations, categorizations, or descriptions that people hold (and may communicate) about groups (and their members) regardless of whether these are accurate or not.
Moments In History
1909 - NAACP formed to fight for equality and justice.
1995 - Tomlinson creates Differentiated Instruction built on other education models.
2023 - Supreme Court banned affirmative action in college admissions.
1946 - National School Lunch Program provides free & low cost lunch to students.
2003 - Massachusetts legalizes same sex marriage.
Statistics
43% of public schools currently qualify for Title I funding (49,229 schools).
38% of transgender/nonbinary young people didn't drink or eat in order to avoid bathroom use and 67% reported "holding it" when they needed to use the restroom.
15% of all public schools nationwide have IEPs (7.5 million students).
Of all participants, 81.8% either agreed (47.7%) or strongly agreed (34.1%) that the availability of bandage options in their skin color positively impacted their perception of healthcare facilities/workers.
Discrimination in healthcare settings is experienced by
1 out of 5 adults over the age of 50 years.
Values
Accessibility and Accommodation
Fairness
'Meeting people where they are'
Responsibility
Conversation
Notable Names
Jane Elliot
Anthony D. Romero
Elizabeth Taylor
Rev. Dr. William
J. Barber
WNBA
Symbols
Our Events
Past
Future
Further Resources
Equity and Equality Infographic
Share what you have learned about Equity and Equality. Our Infographic has been designed to be shared easily by printing, emailing, or posting on social media. Click on the image to view or download the PDF File. (Not for commercial use.)
Celebrate & Create Event Video
Our crafting event for kids was lots of fun! Use your own materials to participate in our craft project. This event was co-facilitated by [COFACILITATOR NAME], [COFACILITATOR DESCRIPTION]. Watch the video to learn how to make your own [CRAFT NAME]! You can also make an event out of it by hosting your own Celebrate and Create: Equity and Equality crafting party. Feel free to share this video with others! (Not for commercial use.)
Take Action
Talk about the difference between equity and equality or challenge your own and other's view of 'Equal Opportunity' and 'Equal Representation' being a goal.
Celebrate differences and build a sense of belonging by participating in peer-to-peer events and creating safe spaces for conversations that share different perspectives.
Commit to one DEI friendly action each week!
Discuss/research various opportunities that exist related to equality and/or equity such as subsidies, rent stabilization, FHA loans, scholarships, admission preferences, child support, and alimony.
Share our Equity and Equality infographic with friends, family, and anyone and everyone you think would appreciate becoming more informed!