Equality vs. Equity: it’s not about discrimination, it’s about different needs!
Ah, the eternal debate between equity and equality! These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they have important nuances that deserve to be explored, especially since misunderstanding them can lead to a perception of injustice, or even discrimination. Let’s find out the difference, once and for all!
Equality: everyone the same
Let’s start with equality. The idea behind this concept is simple: everyone receives the same thing, whether in terms of opportunities, resources or working conditions.
Let’s take a workplace example. Let’s say a company decides to give the same training to all its employees, regardless of their level of experience or specific needs. This is equality: everyone is treated the same.
Equality often seems to be the concept best suited to the workplace. The reasoning is simple: if you give everyone the same thing, then you won’t make anyone jealous and you won’t be able to cry foul. The theory makes sense, but in practice, it doesn’t work!
To take the example of on-the-job training, just because everyone is offered the same training does not mean that everyone has the same chances of succeeding, i.e. of effectively integrating the skills acquired and applying them successfully in their professional role. Some people may need additional support, such as adapted learning materials (written memory aids, voice-activated text readers, etc.) or extra time to assimilate the information. The latter measure is well established in the education system, as it gives students with learning disabilities more time to complete assignments and exams, giving them a greater chance of success.
Equity: based on need
And that’s where equity comes in… and also where it gets complicated for a lot of people!
Equity means recognizing that each person has different needs, and adapting resources accordingly so that everyone can achieve the same level of success.
Imagine the same company deciding, this time, to offer training tailored to each employee’s level of experience. The more advanced have access to more advanced training, while those who need it get extra support by having access to beginner training to get started. Now that’s fairness! The ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone has what they need to succeed, no matter where they start.
So, equality ensures that everyone gets something, while equity ensures that this “something” is tailored to each individual’s needs.
“Equity is a means, equality is an end”
In the end, equity is essential if we are ever to achieve equality.
We can’t treat people directly as if they were equal, because they’re not.
To help you visualize this better (or explain it to others!), we leave you with the following sentence and image: “Equality is giving everyone the same pair of shoes. Equity is giving everyone the right pair of shoes.”
Implementing equity should not be done on a case-by-case, day-by-day basis. If it is, it means you need to review your procedures and establish a framework. Fortunately, that’s what we’re here for! Contact us so that together we can assess the support you need.
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