• About
  • Contact
  • Testimonials
  • Newsletter
  • More
    • Demographics & Advertising Rates
    • Terms & Conditions
Friday, February 3, 2023
No Result
View All Result
California Business Journal
  • Front Page
  • Business
  • Finance
  • People
  • Featured
  • Opinion
  • Technology
  • Law
  • News
  • Food
  • Art & Culture
  • Human Interest
  • Education
  • Insurance
  • Real Estate
  • Health & Fitness
California Business Journal
Dr. Nancy Dome

Dr. Nancy Dome

Commentary: Why Do People Confuse Equity and Equality?

Equity consultant Dr. Nancy Dome co-founded Epoch Education in 2014 to provide leaders in education and business with accessible professional development in diversity, inclusion and belonging, and equity.

by Dr. Nancy Dome, Special to California Business Journal
A A
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

These days, it seems like everywhere you look, people are talking about equality (or, more accurately, this country’s lack of equality). And, as far as their intentions go, this is a good thing.

However, all these conversations are hiding the fact that there’s a big problem lurking just below the surface. By focusing all our attention on equality, we are overlooking the real issue: the lack of equity. Indeed, we are so concerned with equality that we are completely ignoring equity—but without equity, we’ll never achieve equality.

At some level, focusing solely on equality and ignoring equity is an easy trap to fall into. Equality (the idea that everyone should get exactly the same thing and be treated the same way) is one of those lofty ideals we’ve been hearing about since elementary school. Equity (the idea that everyone should get what they need, even if that’s different from what someone else gets) isn’t as cut and dry. That makes it harder, because it requires more attention and adaptability.

On top of that, people often find equity difficult because they fear an equitable system will take something away from them. When they see someone else getting something they aren’t, they don’t stop to consider that their circumstances or existing privileges might mean they don’t need that thing. Instead, all they see is that there is a privilege they’re being denied.

Please understand me: I believe that equality is a noble and worthwhile goal. But if we’re ever going to achieve it, we need to start with equity.

We Are Not All the Same

To really wrap your head around why we have to get to a place of equity before we can achieve equality, it’s important to realize that equality is based on the premise that we are all the same. It says we all have the same ability to achieve, the same ability to thrive.

Unfortunately, that just isn’t true. If you don’t believe me, just look at the news. Asian people are under attack. Jewish people are under attack. Black people are under attack. And yet, on the news, you don’t see stories that indicate White people are under attack: it’s only marginalized groups.

Once you realize we aren’t all treated or even perceived as equal, it’s easier to understand that what one person needs to thrive may be something completely different than what someone else needs. That’s where equity comes in. To give you a simple example: we give free and reduced-cost lunches to kids who don’t have money and food at home. We don’t need to do that for kids whose families can afford to feed them, even though that’s what equality would call for.

Equality is the ultimate goal, yes, but until every single person has equal access to the same privileges as everyone else, we need to focus on equity. That’s the only way to lift everyone up so they have the same opportunity to achieve success and to thrive.

We Are All Connected

As I touched on earlier, far too often, people resist the idea of equity because they think it means they won’t get what they want. And sometimes, they are right. But—and this is key—that’s not the point. The point is that equity is there to give everyone what they need to thrive.

In an equitable system, I may get something you don’t, because you don’t need it. Conversely, there may be something you get that I don’t, because I don’t need it. But, because each of us got what we needed, we are both set up to succeed.

If you feel like an equitable system will create lack for you, remember that we are all connected. If you understand that my success is your success, and vice versa, you are much more likely to give me what I need. If you don’t, though, you are much more likely to try and hold me down to boost yourself up.

Look, if you live in my community and you’re starving, there’s a good chance that one day you’re going to end up stealing from me (or someone else in the community) just to survive. On the other hand, if I have food and everything else I need, and I make sure you have everything you need, too, then I never have to worry about you coming in and harming me or stealing from me. Ultimately, the better off you are, and the better off I am, the better off we all are.

Let's Talk About Race by Dr. Nancy Dome
Let’s Talk About Race by Dr. Nancy Dome

We Can All Help Equity Flourish

Once you realize how important equity is, it’s natural to ask yourself how—or even if—you can help it to flourish in this world. After all, it can feel like an overwhelming challenge. You may not know where to start, or you may be afraid to take action for fear of getting it wrong.

If you’re ready to take action in your own life to support equity for all people, though (and I sincerely hope you are), I would suggest you start by recognizing there are only two emotions in the world: love and fear. All the other emotions come from those two.

If you feel hate, anger, jealousy, or insecurity, it’s an indication that you are coming from a place of fear. On the other hand, if you feel empathy, compassion, or a willingness to support others, you are coming from a place of love. Why is this important? Because ultimately, all of the decisions you make either come from a place of fear or a place of love.

As challenging as it may be, it’s imperative that you reflect on which of these two emotions is driving you. When you identify an area where fear is your driver (and trust me, we all have those places), ask yourself what it is you’re truly afraid of. What lack are you afraid of being subjected to in your own life if another person or group of people achieve equity?

We Can Make the World a More Equitable Place

As you do this work, it can be tempting to feel shame around the biases and prejudices you discover in yourself. However, I would urge you to remember that what you uncover is not a cause for shame. We are all human, and we all harbor biases and fears. This is a journey; holding ourselves to a standard of perfection is unrealistic.

Rather than blaming and shaming yourself, put your energy into identifying your prejudices and the places you feel fear. Then, do the intrapersonal work of dismantling them.

If you do—if you keep working on identifying your fears and releasing your biases—not only will you keep growing, you’ll also help the world become a more equitable and better place.

ADVERTISEMENT

For more advice on how to overcome your internal fears and prejudices, you can find Let’s Talk About Race (and Other Hard Things) on Amazon.

Renowned speaker, author, and equity consultant Dr. Nancy Dome co-founded Epoch Education in 2014 to provide leaders in education and business with accessible professional development in diversity, inclusion and belonging, and equity. As an educator for nearly three decades, Dr. Dome taught in the juvenile court and community schools teaching our most vulnerable students and has served as a Distinguished Teacher in Residence and faculty member at California State University San Marcos. Her transformative approach helps school districts and educational agencies throughout the country navigate complex topics, build bridges, and work together for inclusive, impactful change. For more information, visit www.epocheducation.com.

Related Posts

Mark Frissora
Commentary: Don't Underestimate the Importance of Authentic Company Culture
diversity in the workplace
Commentary: Encouraging Trends Emerge as Life Science Companies Strive for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
Correcting the Wealth Gap
Leaping the Equity Chasm
Jason Riviero, senior director of Global Growth Markets at Realogy
Realogy Innovates for Diversity and Inclusion
Help Community
The Importance of Asking For Help in Your Community

 

Tags: CaliforniacommunitydevelopmentDr. Nancy DomeeducationenergyEqualityequityEquity and Equality?focusfoodinclusionnaturalSanstoriestrustUniversity
ADVERTISEMENT
Dr. Nancy Dome, Special to California Business Journal

Dr. Nancy Dome, Special to California Business Journal

Related Posts

Help Community
The Importance of Asking For Help in Your Community
Correcting the Wealth Gap
Leaping the Equity Chasm
Mark Frissora
Commentary: Don't Underestimate the Importance of Authentic Company Culture
diversity in the workplace
Commentary: Encouraging Trends Emerge as Life Science Companies Strive for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
Jason Riviero, senior director of Global Growth Markets at Realogy
Realogy Innovates for Diversity and Inclusion
advertisement
ADVERTISEMENT

CBJ Newsletter

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram LinkedIn

Advertise With CBJ

Contact Rick@CalBizJournal.com

CBJ Rates and Demographics

Job Postings

CEO Wanted


Requirements: BS/BA + 2yrs of Business Managing Experience

Mail Resume: Grand Life, Inc. 14647 Northam St. La Mirada, CA 90638.

$114,754/year

ADVERTISEMENT
1REALTOUR-SAN DIEGO-WEB DESIGN
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn LinkedIn Instagram
C B J   LOGO  SVG-01
  • About
  • Contact California Business Journal
  • Testimonials
  • Demographics & Advertising Rates
  • Terms & Conditions

Categories

  • Art & Culture
  • Business
  • California Hotel Listings
  • Daily Updates
  • Editor's Choice
  • Education
  • Featured
  • Finance
  • Food & Dining
  • Health & Fitness
  • Human Interest
  • Insurance
  • Law
  • Lawyers
  • Marketing
  • Medical
  • News
  • Newsletter
  • Opinion
  • People
  • Popular
  • Real Estate
  • Social Media
  • Technology
  • Uncategorized

CBJ Partner Firebrand Media

Laguna Beach Independent Newspaper
 Laguna Beach City Guide
 Newport Beach Independent Newspaper
Newport Beach Country Club Magazine
  Montage Magazine
 Omni Escapes Hotel Magazine
 Bespoke Concierge New York
 Evans Hotels
 Laguna Beach Magazine
 On The Menu Laguna Beach
 Newport Beach Magazine
Coastal Real Estate Guide (NB,LB, CDM)
Monarch Beach Resort Magazine
 Pacific Coast Magazine (SoCal)
Sea Island Life Magazine
Salamander Hotel & Resorts Magazine
 View our entire portfolio

 

Most Viewed

  • Gavel, scales of justice and law books

    Lawsuit Basics: How Much Does It Cost to Sue Someone?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Investigation: Can TriumphFX Take Your Money?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • The Impact of Covid: Racing to Buy Second Citizenships

    3 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • What to Do When an Online Casino Refuses to Pay Out Your Winnings

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Top 5 Flavors On Elf Bar BC5000 Review

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • NFL Paychecks: How Do NFL Players Get Paid?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Five Reasons Why The Government Does Not Like Bitcoin

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • How to Start a Telecommunication Business: A Step-By-Step Guide

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • 6 Types of Business Records and Receipts Every Small Business Should Keep

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Temu’s New Shipping Policy Is A Smashing Hit For Shoppers All Over the Country

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0

Latest Articles

Q&A with Jennifer Woods, Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FrontDoor on Why Companies Should Release Sustainability Reports.

Q&A with Jennifer Woods, Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FrontDoor on Why Companies Should Release Sustainability Reports.

Best Practices for Establishing Secure Password Protocols

Best Practices for Establishing Secure Password Protocols

How to Up Your Marketing Game with Real Estate 3D Rendering

How to Up Your Marketing Game with Real Estate 3D Rendering

Tips For Designing A Vinyl Banner For Your Business

Tips For Designing A Vinyl Banner For Your Business

15 Useful Animation Makers for Novice Entrepreneurs (2023)

15 Useful Animation Makers for Novice Entrepreneurs For 2023

What is FinTech?

What is FinTech?

IT Company Tips: How to Develop IoT Mobile App

IT Company Tips: How to Develop IoT Mobile App

Offline Marketing Strategies for Brand Visibility and Awareness

Offline Marketing Strategies for Brand Visibility and Awareness

Around the U.S.: Benefits of Getting a Loan From Hard Money Lending in Colorado

Around the U.S.: Benefits of Getting a Loan From Hard Money Lending in Colorado

6 Easy Ways to Win the Online Casino

6 Easy Ways to Win the Online Casino

California Business Journal | California Business News, California News Media, California business articles | Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Inland Empire, Northern California, San Francisco | Huntington Beach CA 92649 | (949) 648-3815
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY CALIFORNIA BUSINESS JOURNAL.
Site Design by 1REALTOUR

No Result
View All Result
  • Front Page
  • Business
  • Finance
  • People
  • Featured
  • Opinion
  • Technology
  • Law
  • News
  • Food
  • Art & Culture
  • Human Interest
  • Education
  • Insurance
  • Real Estate
  • Health & Fitness

California Business Journal | California Business News, California News Media, California business articles | Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Inland Empire, Northern California, San Francisco | Huntington Beach CA 92649 | (949) 648-3815
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY CALIFORNIA BUSINESS JOURNAL.
Site Design by 1REALTOUR