| How DEI Impacts Us — And Democracy. If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you’re probably aware of the recent attacks on “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) policies. But what is DEI, how does it really impact us and our democracy? https://www.lwv.org/blog/how-dei-impacts-us-and-democracy Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are three unique concepts that are often confused with one another. Diversity: Recognition and acceptance that multiple perspectives, identities, and cultural groups exist. Diversity has us consider the degree to which a wide variety of opinions and identities, such as race, ethnicity, age, gender, and more, are represented. Example: A rally is attended by people aged 18-85, so there is a wide range of age diversity at the event. However, almost all attendees are white, so there is a low level of racial diversity. Equity: Recognizes that people face various barriers to achieving success. Equity is about providing fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people who experience disadvantage. This may look like barriers being eliminated or assistance provided that “level the playing field” so everyone can thrive. Example: College A launched a STEM program, but over 90% of applicants and students were male. By offering special scholarships for women pursuing scientific degrees, College A increased the number of female applicants, thereby growing equity in fields where women are normally underrepresented. Inclusion: Recognizes that all people have perspectives and viewpoints that matter and should be heard. Inclusion is about providing a context where differences are welcomed, differing perspectives are respectfully heard, and every individual feels a sense of belonging. Example: “Marcy,” a League member and wheelchair user, notices that her perspective in meetings is always valued, she never feels othered by fellow members, and that all meetings and events are held in places that meet her access needs. For these and more reasons, she feels this environment is inclusive. While DEI seems like a new concept, it was actually born out of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Activists like former League member Shirley Chisholm were instrumental in its expansion to cover gender equity. Workplace DEI programs and trainings expanded in the 21st century, and in the 2010s they became more prominent than ever. In recent years, DEI efforts have been closely linked to movements like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, as well as advances like the legalization of same-sex marriage. For more on this blog https://www.lwv.org/blog/what-dei-beyond-buzzwords |
