DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
DEI is field of work and area of focus utilized by many organizations and professionals that emphasizes the values of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. At Catholic Charities, I researched best practices for implementation and have continued to conduct evaluative research on the board's DEI Taskforce.
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KEY TERMS
Defining DEI
DIVERSITY
Diversity is the extent to which members of a group can be considered different. Diversity can be across identities of race, ethnicity, age, gender, gender expression, sex, ability, size, socioeconomic status, class, citizenship status, religion, geography, language, education, sexual orientation, veteran status, etc. but can also take into account skills, life experience, and expertise which are all influenced by one's social identities.
EQUITY
Equity refers to the transformation of systems to prioritize the needs of the most marginalized. This differs significantly from equality because equity recognizes that different groups have culturally specific needs distinct from the needs of the dominant majority and which often times requires a redistribution of resources to serve those with the least access to those resources instead of equal distribution regardless of group.
INCLUSION
A group is inclusive not only when it represents a diversity of people, but when it fosters an environment where everyone is empowered, comfortable, and appreciated for their contributions. It is not enough to merely have individuals on the margins at the table if they cannot effectively share their voice and be heard. Inclusion highlights how we must create and sustain space for others to not only exist within but thrive.