Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: What’s the Real Difference?

📢 What Are Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are often used interchangeably, but they each have distinct meanings. 
• Understanding these concepts is key to fostering a truly inclusive environment. 

👥 Diversity

•  Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a given setting, 
  • particularly around race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, and other identity factors. 
• It’s about recognizing variety and ensuring that different perspectives are represented.

⚖️ Equity

•  Equity is about fairness and justice. 
  • Unlike equality, which treats everyone the same, equity takes into account individual circumstances and strives to provide everyone with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. 
  • It’s about removing barriers that disproportionately affect certain groups.

🤝 Inclusion

•  Inclusion is the practice of creating environments where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. 
• It’s about actively engaging diverse groups in decision-making, ensuring they have a voice, and creating a culture of belonging.

🔥 Why These Differences Matter

• While all three are interconnected, focusing on one without the others leads to gaps in progress. 
• Diversity without inclusion results in tokenism. 
• Equity without diverse teams means unequal opportunities. 
• Inclusion without equity leaves out those who need it most.

💡 The Power of DEI Together

• When combined, DEI creates a stronger, more resilient culture that celebrates differences, offers fair opportunities, and ensures everyone feels like they truly belong. 
• This is key for workplaces, schools, and communities to thrive.

💬 What’s Your DEI Story?

• How have you seen diversity, equity, and inclusion play out in your life or work?
• Share your experiences below👇

By Toby Keeler

If you haven’t yet had the opportunity, make sure to order a copy of Elmer Dixon’s powerful memoir DIE STANDING: From Black Panther Revolutionary to Global Diversity Consultant and check out what others have been saying about Elmer and his story.

Check out these other opportunities to see what folks are saying about Elmer and his continued work.

• See Elmer speak at Stories from the Revolutions’ Front Lines at his keynote at TEDxUTulsa
• Listen to Elmer talk on NPR’s The Jefferson Exchange
• Read about Elmer’s story in a piece featured in The Seattle Times
• Listen to Elmer on The Medium