Article:

Equality vs equity: what’s the difference? And why should managers care?

Written by Matthew Jenkin Wednesday 20 April 2022

Leaders must ensure that equity is part of their ED&I conversations and policies. Why? Because it’s vital to achieving workplace equality

A group of people standing on boxes of equal height next to a group of people standing on boxes of different heights according to their size

For companies that want to thrive and survive in today’s ever changing world, embracing equality, diversity and inclusion policies is essential. This means allowing everybody the same resources and opportunities regardless of their background or circumstances. It’s clear that managers and leaders are key players in striving for and achieving equality in the workplace – whether from the perspective of gender, age, class, race, or something else.

Equity builds equality

But a strong ED&I programme must go further than offering equal opportunities, resources and rights in the workplace. It must also include a focus on equity.

Why? Because, according to Katy Murray – founder of equity, diversity and inclusion consultancy Catalyst Collective and author of Change Makers: A Woman’s Guide To Stepping Up Without Burning Out At Work – focusing on equality alone blinds leaders to the hidden obstacles preventing people from progressing in the organisation.

Equity ensures that everybody has what they need in order to achieve equality

Keep reading to discover why equity is a vital ingredient to any successful ED&I policy

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