A lot of organizations and leaders say they are committed to diversity but have no idea what it means to pursue it, and more importantly make working towards it a shared organizational goal. Most well-meaning leaders stay at the surface and articulate performative, even if sincere, goals.
As a society, we are in the middle of a change for which we are profoundly unprepared. We talk past each other and attach different meanings to the same words, with ever increasing consequences (ex: critical race theory). Today the realities of demographic change and culture wars are dueling in prime time. Organizations and leaders are grappling with how to respond. To authentically be and do better. Let me be your guide.
Diversity is NOT the Goal, Equity is. To understand this and meaningfully work toward it, we need to be clear on what equity is not. Equity is not the same thing as diversity. It is not about race, gender, LGBTQ or differently abled groups as identity groups.
Equity focuses on where those identities have overlapped with differences in desirable outcomes, with deleterious consequences, and asks why. If we celebrate and showcase diversity and do nothing to work towards equity, we have failed. Equity requires a constant pursuit. An awareness of what the real goal is and striving to reach it.
Check back here often for my notes, tidbits, and observations on equity–why it matters and how to work towards it. If you enjoyed this blog post, share it on your favorite social media platform with the hashtag #pursuingequity and follow me at @AnnaBranchPhD.