The difference between equality and equity — and the encouragement of continuous learning regarding both — were the topics of a recent OUWB event held in conjunction with Women in Medicine Month.

“股权大战. Equality: Knowing Makes the Difference” featured 汤娅·贝利博士.D., associate dean, 多样性, Equity, and 包容 & 社区 Engagement.

Bailey has more than 25 years of experience in higher education and has held various leadership roles before arriving at OUWB.

She introduced the terms equality and equity by stating that oftentimes people confuse the two words as synonyms because they sound so similar. 然而, she explained that both terms serve entirely different functions, and started by delving into the meaning of “equality.”

The meaning of equality

“Equality is about ensuring that each individual is given an equal opportunity…no one should have poor opportunities just because of where they were born, 它们从哪里来, what they believe or whether they have a disability,贝利说。.

“Equality really focuses on fairness – making sure everyone has a portion of fairness at the same level,她补充道。.

An example Bailey provided for clarification was that when we apply for a driver’s license, everyone is given the same written and vehicle operation test. This presents an equal and fair chance for everyone taking the test.

然而, a problem with equality is that it doesn’t consider the varying abilities and needs of a person.

“You can see how when we’re trying to be in the operation of equality, how giving everybody the same thing, 同样的考试, the same resource may not be equitable,贝利说。.

股本解释

Bailey then explained equity.

“Equity then means giving each individual or members of a group the exact same resources or opportunities that will fit their needs,”她说。. “With equity, it’s also about ongoing practices that recognize eliminating barriers.”

She explained the importance of recognizing the difference between equality and equity.

“Understanding this difference is critical, especially if we’re aiming to reduce disparities within our workspaces, 我们的家庭, as well as our communities,贝利说。. “There are so many diverse, lived experiences that we need to consider that can make more lives successful.”

“Understanding that everyone doesn’t start at the same place and the need for making adjustments is vital,她补充道。.

While equality and equity are different ideas, said Bailey, they complement one another. She added that equity is needed to help break down barriers and achieve a more equal, fair world.

At the end of her presentation, Bailey encouraged people to continue to educate themselves on equality and equity.

“Continue to start coming to sessions like this…it’s OK to know that you don’t know,” Bailey said. “Start looking at different books and ways that you can educate and also talk to other individuals.”

To request an interview, visit the OUWB Communications & 市场营销 网页.

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