💡Equality vs Equity

Acknowledging the fact that equality and equity are different terms and why it is essential to appreciate the difference between them.

Why is it so hard to understand Equality vs Equity?

Wait, aren't they the same? Well, even I thought both are the same until I came across this image which hit me so hard!

Let's start with how Google defines them.

Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Whereas Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.

Still confused right? Let me give you an analogy. I was totally unhappy with the caste-based reservation system in admission to colleges and universities in India. To give some context who are unaware of this system, it is basically that you can get admission to a university if you belong to a particular caste even though you don't get through the basic cut-off in the final exams.

Sounds weird right? But this has been the practice for years in India. But why though? People getting good marks and clearing the cut-off should get through the admissions right? That's what a fair deal looks like. But trust me, even I had the same mentality until I saw this amazing Tamil movie - Karnan (available on Amazon Prime) acted by Dhanush.

The logic is that people in the oppressed caste have been haunted for many years and they were not given any opportunity to educate themselves, especially in India. So, the only way to liberate them is by giving them n number of concessions and opportunities to bring back their livelihood. Now makes sense right?

But the question is does it make fair even now in the 21st century?

The answer is a big NO, at least to me. I have a different perspective when applying the concept of equity in an education system because I have been through and I know the pain points and consequences of that.

It makes sense in giving concessions and lowering the eligibility criteria to the oppressed caste but are they really oppressed still is a matter of question to which there is no answer still.

Other Dimensions

The concept of equality vs equity is not just applied in the education system but also in various spheres of life. One such is UI/UX - User interface and User Experience. All and sundry are using smart devices and it is imperative for industries to design their products compatible and accessible for the whole world. One such industry is definitely Google who makes devices that are accessible as well as compatible for people with disabilities and it is highly commendable.

Also, let's normalize the fact that each one will take their own time in finding the right job for them. But how does this relate to the concept of Equality vs Equity? Life is not the same for everyone. Some might have had past work experiences. Some might have known 3 to 4 languages. Some might be extremely good at coding. Some might be great at sales and marketing.

So, in a nutshell, some might have equal resources like others (Equality) while most of them have different and are waiting for opportunities for the exact amount of resources (Equity)