1.2 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism

What is DEIA?

The DEIA acronym and other versions of it are often used, but not always defined.

Diversity is the variety of characteristics that make up individuals’ unique identities, including race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, body size, abilities, and many others.

Equity is the fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of marginalized groups of people.

Inclusion refers to creating a culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions.

Antiracism is “active process of identifying and eliminating racism by changing systems, organizational structures, policies and practices and attitudes, so that power is redistributed and shared equitably” (National Action Committee on the Status of Women International Perspectives: Women and Global Solidarity, as cited in dela Peña, 2020).

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Figure 1.1. This work, “DEIA Defined” is adapted from “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” by Heather Blicher, Valencia Scott, and Michaela Willi Hooper, Open Oregon Educational Resources, used under CC BY 4.0. “DEIA Defined” is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by OERFSJ.

Together, diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism (DEIA) are a set of principles that guide us in understanding how to value and leverage the differences among people to foster anti-oppressive learning environments and tools.

In this vein, DEIA is a central tenant to the Catholic identity and university missions at all four OERFSJ institutions (Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Santa Clara University, Saint Mary’s College of California, and the University of San Francisco). Antiracism work calls for us to “regard and treat each other with respect, recognizing the inherent dignity and immutable humanity of all people, made in the image of God,” explained Emelyn A. dela Peña LMU’s vice-president for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What is the difference between equality and equity?

Equality and equity are similar in that they both aim to promote fairness and justice for all individuals, but they approach this goal in different ways.

Equality is about treating everyone the same, regardless of their individual differences or needs. This approach assumes that everyone starts from the same place and has the same opportunities, so if everyone is given the same resources and support, it is assumed they will all achieve the same outcomes.

Equity recognizes that individuals have different needs and starts from the understanding that not everyone has the same advantages or opportunities. It aims to level the playing field by providing resources and support in a way that addresses these individual differences and needs.

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Figure 1.2. On this episode of The Harbor by Jostens, guest Cammy Watkins explains the differences between equity and equality, and how equity goes further by recognizing that everyone starts with unique advantages and disadvantages, and therefore needs different solutions in order to establish fair access and opportunity.

Why are we focused on equity?

Diversity cannot be separated from equity, and equity is vital to sustainable inclusion: Equity is the bridge between institutional representation and institutional action.

Some of the main goals of DEIA frameworks include:

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An example of the difference between equality and equity is in education: equality in education would mean that every student is given the textbook, while equity in education would mean that each student is given the textbook and any resources they need to succeed, such as providing accommodations for students with disabilities.

In short, equality is treating everyone the same, equity is treating everyone fairly.

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Image Descriptions

Figure 1.1 Image description: A grouping of shapes meant to represent people (each with a small circle on top of a wider circle for a head and body) in many colors represents diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism. Diversity is defined in a popup as the presence of different people and perspectives. Equity is defined in a popup as fair access, opportunity, and support. Inclusion is defined in a popup as a sense of belonging, voice, and decision-making authority. Antiracism is defined in a popup as an active removal of entrenched racism. The attribution statement reads, this work, “DEIA Defined” is adapted from “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” by Heather Blicher, Valencia Scott, and Michaela Willi Hooper, Open Oregon Educational Resources, used under CC BY 4.0. “DEIA Defined” is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by OERFSJ.

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