Equality is leaving the door open for anyone who has the means to approach it; EQUITY is ensuring there is a pathway to that door for those who need it.
Caroline Belden, Equity v. Equality Series, The Inclusion Solution
Opportunity is the key! Equity is ensuring that EVERY student has the OPPORTUNITY to succeed. It also includes providing the tools needed for them to pursue the best version of themselves. Equity looks different for everyone, but it provides the medium for true equality. Many confuse equality with equity, but they are incredibly different terms. Imagine a world in which all children received a free pair of shoes – this would be an example of equality. Now, imagine if each of those children received a pair of shoes THAT FIT – THIS is equity; providing individuals with elements tailored to their specific needs and abilities. Equity is not implemented in spite of others, but in support of all. Providing an equitable educational experience does not take away from the experiences of others with access. On the contrary – an equitable educational experience increases the learning environment of ALL students. Often times, the below graphic is used to illustrate a transition from equality to equity.
While the elements of this graphic demonstrate a provision of resources in order to provide equal access for the objective to each individual, there is a fundamental issue/concern as it relates to the definition and perception of the implementation of equitable practices. One element that is not taken into account with this graphic as it relates to education is the role of our exceptional students. To that end, the below graphic was created to demonstrate the transitional to equitable educational considerations.
The use of more inclusive elements with regard to the needs of a more diverse group of students is paramount in advocating for all students, however, the same fundamental issue exists in this depiction of the Equality v. Equity argument. Focusing on these illustrations as a continuum, in which there is a movement from the left picture toward that of the right, the taller individual on the left, who depicts an individual of advanced status, whether that be academic, physical, financial, or otherwise, has his box removed in the depiction of equity. The support or scaffolding is then provided to the disadvantaged individual on the right of the picture. It is a common misconception that equity involves taking something away from an entity that “does not need the provided supports” and providing those resources to a marginalized demographic. True equity acknowledges that provisions are not just needed for students who are below the academic standard. There are also students on the opposite end of the equity spectrum who need supports based on enrichment, as well. With this in mind, the below example is a more accurate depiction of a complete understanding of the movement from a system based on equality to one focused on equity.
Let’s be clear, equity is not fair. Equity provides for a leveling of the opportunity gap by providing the needed resources for everyone to succeed. There is no finite space for success. There is room for everyone to succeed. Creating a space in which all are given the OPPORTUNITY to achieve their best self and pursue their goals is the personification of equity. In order to do so, systems will need to be created to combat those that have resulted in the current disparity and various gaps between cultures and various ethnicities. The work for an equitable environment must be intentional. It will require ownership, collaboration, and selflessness to commit to changing what traditional has continued to divide. It isn’t easy, but it is necessary. The goal is to move from EQUALITY to EMPOWERMENT! Let’s get to work! Let’s change the world! Let’s get R.E.A.L.!
Re-Imagining Equity and Learning 