From Diversity to Inclusion to Equity

You’ve probably seen this image:

It’s a good way to start thinking about the difference between equality and equity. Equity is a key component of any authentic, intentional program that aims to increase diversity, improve representation and inclusion, or work toward reconciliation.

Equity recognizes that not only do we vary demographically, but not all individuals start from the same place. Some have a head start and more influence than others. Equity assigns the same intrinsic value to each person. Every voice matters, and every voice has weight. Equity is the intentional modeling of a just working environment, one that is self-aware and self-sustaining, engaged in challenging intentional and unintentional forms of bias and discrimination while promoting wholesome, fair alternatives.

This is one perspective on equity efforts in the corporate world. Continue reading.

(By the way, I prefer an evolution of the image above — I believe this speaks much more to the work of the Episcopal Church and our camps and conference centers, as we move beyond “welcome” to true hospitality:)