The Difference Between Equality and Equity: Why It Matters

In conversations about social justice, we often hear the words equality and equity thrown around. While many people, especially in professional spaces, claim to have equity at the core of their work, there can be a real blind spot in understanding what equity actually means—especially when microaggressions or ignorance about intersectionality persist. So, let’s break it down.

Equality is about giving everyone the same resources or opportunities. It’s the idea that if we treat everyone the same, we’re being fair. Sounds good on the surface, right? The problem is that not everyone starts from the same place, so treating everyone the same often ignores historical and structural barriers that disproportionately affect certain groups—particularly marginalized communities.

This is where equity comes in. Equity acknowledges that different people need different resources to reach the same outcome. It’s about leveling the playing field by providing support based on specific needs, rather than assuming everyone starts from the same point. Equity focuses on fairness by addressing systemic inequalities—giving people what they need to succeed, not just the same thing for everyone.

Imagine a race: Equality is like giving everyone the same pair of running shoes, even though some people might be miles behind the starting line. Equity is acknowledging those gaps and giving those further behind a head start or a different kind of support so everyone has an equal chance to finish the race.

Now, where does the disconnect come in? Many people who claim equity is at the center of their work are still operating from an equality mindset. They might provide the same resources for everyone but fail to recognize the different barriers people face—especially when those barriers relate to race, gender, or other identities. This often shows up in microaggressions or a lack of understanding about intersectionality—the idea that people can experience multiple layers of discrimination based on overlapping identities (e.g., being a Black woman or a queer person of color).

Equity requires an ongoing effort to understand and dismantle these systemic barriers. It’s not just about giving everyone the same shoes; it’s about making sure everyone has what they need to run the race in the first place. So, next time you hear someone claim that equity is their focus, look at their actions: Are they truly addressing the different needs of those around them, or are they simply offering equality and calling it equity?

Let’s keep pushing for a deeper understanding of equity, one that truly centers on fairness and the real needs of diverse communities.

Too Long, DIdn't Read? Here is a short version: Equality is giving everyone the same thing. Equity is giving people what they need to succeed. Equity requires more than just good intentions—it’s about real action that addresses systemic barriers and acknowledges the lived experiences of marginalized groups.