Guest Blog: Equality and Equity – The Difference Between the Two and Why It Matters

By Noreen Quadir

Equality and equity are often used interchangeably and if you thought these two terms meant the same thing, you wouldn’t be alone. While they may sound similar, they have distinct definitions. As a company, you may want to foster a workplace environment that values diversity and achieves equity. But in order to accomplish this, it’s important to understand what equity is and also understand that it is not the same as equality.

Equality is defined as equal opportunities and treating everyone equally. Whereas, equity is  defined as fairness and providing proportional opportunities, resources, and representation.  When it comes to education, the workforce, and the government, we have equal opportunities.  Every American in this country has a right to education, has the right to enter the workforce  and be considered for jobs, and has the right to run for political office, regardless of their  gender, race, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, etc. However, that does not mean  everyone has a fair chance. For an example, even though every American is allowed to pursue higher education, not all Americans have the monetary resources and means to attend college. Many are living in underserved communities, making it difficult to achieve some of the academic standards that other students might have or access academic support and funds for higher education. Therefore, while equality is about everything being the same or equal, equity is about fairness and leveling the playing field. It requires the acknowledgment that each individual’s needs and obstacles are different.