DEI Key Terms

DEI Key Terms Identity Identities are distinguishing qualities, beliefs, looks, expressions, and etc. that define a person or a thing. Some examples include but are not limited to: race, ethnicity, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, romantic orientation, socio-economic status, language, culture, national origin, religion/spirituality, age, ability, military/veteran status, political perspective, associational preferences, and more. Identities are often socially constructed designations. Identity Diversity Diversity refers to all aspects of difference, identities, and social group differences, including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, romantic orientation, socio-economic status, language, culture, national origin, religion/spirituality, age, ability, military/veteran status, political perspective, associational preferences, and more. Diversity exists when multiple identities are represented. Intersectionality Intersectionality is a theory developed by Dr. Kimberle Crenshaw. The framework asserts that people are often disadvantaged by multiple sources of oppression: their race, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and other identity markers. Intersectionality recognizes that identity markers do not exist independently of each other, and that each informs the others, often creating a complex convergence of oppression. Intersectionality suggests that a person may identify with a specific identity group, but may experience social structures differently than others because of other oppressive, overlapping identities. Equality Equality is the state of being equal. Social equality is described as a society in which all people have the same status and access to all things. However, achieving equality does not always occur when people receive the same things. Achieving equality may require the filling of structural gaps (see equity). Equity Equity refers to fair and just practices and policies that ensure all people can thrive. Equity is different from equality in that equality implies treating everyone as if their experiences are the same. Being equitable means acknowledging and addressing structural inequalities - historic and current - that advantage some and disadvantage others. Equal treatment results in equity only if everyone starts with equal access to opportunities. Fairness Fairness considers how people are treated in ways that are free from bias and dishonesty, and it is achieved when all factors are legitimately considered. Therefore, determining fairness may often consider whether equality or equity is appropriately applied when making decisions. Inclusion Inclusion refers to a campus community where all members are and feel respected, have a sense of belonging, and can participate and achieve to their potential. While diversity is essential, it is not enough. An institution can be both diverse and non-inclusive at the same time, thus a sustained practice of creating an inclusive environment is necessary for success. Inclusive Excellence Inclusive Excellence (IE) is the recognition that a community or institution's success is dependent on how well it values, engages and includes the rich diversity of students, staff, faculty, administrators, alumni constituents, and the community. Privilege Unearned access to resources (social power) that are only readily available to some people because of their social group membership; an advantage, or immunity granted to or enjoyed by one personal or societal group above and beyond the common advantage of all other people or groups. Privilege is often invisible to those who have it. Worldviews Worldviews are beliefs about aspects of society, which influences perceptions, thought, understanding, and actions. Worldviews can also be described as personal mindsets or philosophies. Free speech Free speech or Freedom of Speech supports the autonomy of a person to express their views without fear of censorship or legal sanction. Free speech is supported by the 1st Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America, which prohibits congress from promoting a specific religion or restricting press or rights of individuals to speak freely. Civility Civility is described as the presence of courtesy and politeness of behaviors and speech. When civility is present, disagreements are handled with respect for differing views and identities and a pursuit for common ground. Microaggressions Microaggressions are everyday verbal, nonverbal, and environmental slights, snubs, or insults, whether intentional or unintentional, which communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages that target persons based upon their identity. They can be questions, comments, behaviors, actions, or ambience that are based on prejudice or identity insensitivity. Hate Speech Hate speech is abusive or threatening speech or writing that expresses prejudice against a particular group, especially on the basis of race, religion, or sexual orientation. Unlike microaggressions that are often unintentional, hate speech is intended to be harmful. Ally An ally is a person who is not a member of a particular underrepresented group, but who actively supports that group. People of privilege are often positioned to be allies to underprivileged people. An example is a person who does not identify with an LGBTQ+ identity, but who promotes fairness in policies and procedures for those who do.