Similarities Between Equity and Equality

The terms equity and equality are often considered as being interchangeable ideologies. Equity is about fairness and giving everyone what they need to thrive. Equality, as the name suggests, means equal opportunity and treating everyone the same. When we think of the two terms, the first thing that comes to mind is the Declaration of Independence, which says that all men are created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In this article, we look at the similarities between equity and equality.

What is Equity?

The term equity means justice and fairness in the context of resources, opportunities, and results based on a person’s individual needs and circumstances. Equity means people should be treated differently under different circumstances so as to provide equality of opportunity. In education, for example, equity would imply providing greater help or resources to people from low-income families to ensure they had an equal opportunity of success.

Equity is based on the idea of fairness, which means making sure that personal and social circumstances should not be an obstacle and should lead to long-term, sustainable access for generations to come. By removing systematic inequalities encountered by specific groups or individuals, equity aims to level the playing field and create a fairer society. Equity is primarily concerned with equality of opportunity, not with outcomes.

What is Equality?

Equality is the state of being equal, of having the same value. It means treating everyone exactly the same, regardless of their race, religion, sex, and status. Equality is based on the principle that all human beings are equal, despite their differences. However, equality can be a tricky concept since it can mean different things to different people. This concept is especially significant in the legal system, as the law should be the same for everyone and should treat everyone equally regardless of who they or what their circumstances are. 

It’s about being fair and not discriminating against anyone based on their identity or status. It means everybody should be given a fair chance to succeed in life, while ensuring that nobody is discriminated against or faces any inequalities because of their birth, background, beliefs, or disabilities.

Similarities between Equity and Equality

Equal Treatment

– Both the terms equity and equality aim to promote equality – they emphasize on the importance of treating everyone equally and fairly, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, and beliefs. They advocate for everyone to have equal access to opportunities and resources. Both seek to alleviate social and systemic inequities while promoting justice and fairness in society.

Disregard Discrimination

– Both the concepts embrace equality and disregard discrimination by removing barriers in access to training, education, and employment. The idea is to rid society and its people of the biases they carry based on factors like race, gender, religion, or disability. They both aim to foster inclusive environments where everyone is valued and respected. Every man has a moral right or claim to equality with other men. 

Promoting Social Justice

– Both advocate fairness and social justice, but only if everyone starts from the same place and requires the same things. They aim to build a society in which everyone has equal rights, opportunities, and outcomes. The goal is to create a fair society where each individual’s civil and human rights are respected and protected. This can be achieved by eliminating the gaps and making society equitable for all.

Summary

Equality makes sure everyone gets the same treatment and the same things that would allow them to enjoy their life to the fullest without any discrimination. Equity means fairness and social justice, and ensuring everyone has been given fair opportunity to succeed and enjoy healthy lives. It aims to remove any potential barriers or disadvantages that people may face, so providing a level playing field for all. Equality aims to even out imbalances based on the principle of fairness (equity).

FAQs

What are the differences or similarities between equity, equality & fairness?

Equality makes sure everyone gets the same treatment, while equity makes sure everyone gets an equal and fair opportunity to succeed and enjoy healthy lives. Equality promotes equal treatment for all, whereas equity recognizes individual differences as well as the need for fairness.

What is an example of equity and equality?

Equality is giving men and women equal opportunities and rights to succeed in a workplace. This means giving them access to the same resources.

Making certain roles or job descriptions accessible to a select group or providing some the option to work from home is an example of equity in the workplace. 

What is the difference or similarities between the term justice and equity?

Justice means fairness in a much broader sense, encompassing legal, moral, and social aspects. Equity is a method of achieving justice that focuses on resolving imbalances and ensuring fairness.

What is the difference between equality and equity?

Equality ensures that each individual or group has access to the same resources and opportunities. In contrast, equity recognizes that people’s situations differ and provides them with the resources and chances they need to attain an equal outcome.

What are 2 examples of equity?

Offering scholarships or financial aid to underprivileged students or putting specific policies in place that prioritize people with disabilities or impairments are examples of equity.

What is an example of equality and equity in the workplace?

Paying the same wage to all employees for the same role is an example of equity in the workplace. Another example is providing remote options or flexible work hours to suit employees’ varying needs and preferences.