Equity

Unlike equality which implies sameness, equity, on the other hand, assumes difference and takes difference into account to ensure a fair process and (equitable) outcome. Equity recognizes that some groups/individuals were (and are) disadvantaged in accessing opportunities, tools, and resources. Therefore, they are underrepresented or marginalized in many organizations and institutions. The effects of that exclusion often linger systemically within organizational policies, practices, and procedures. Equity, therefore, means increasing diversity by ameliorating conditions of disadvantaged groups.

Diversity

Diversity is defined as differences in race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, religion, ability, sex, sexual orientation, and age. A diversity of perspectives, representation, stories, and lived experiences are fundamental to achieving excellence in all desired outcomes.

Inclusion

Inclusion is defined as the practice of ensuring that all groups/individuals are valued, respected, and supported for their contributions. Ensuring that all individuals and community members are integrated and supported is fundamental to achieving excellence in desired outcomes.

Source: American Library Association's ODLOS Glossary of Terms.

Diversity and Social Justice Toolkit

Diversity Toolkit: A Guide to Discussing Identity, Power and Privilege | MSW@USC

We all have both privileged and oppressive identities. The toolkit provided in the link above is an effective resource for any individual who feels there is a lack of productive discourse around issues of diversity and the role of identity in social relationships, both on a micro (individual) and macro (communal) level.

Whether you are a teacher, youth group leader, student affairs coordinator, or manage a team that works with an underserved population. Training of this kind can provide historical context about the politics of identity and the dynamics of power and privilege or help build greater self-awareness. 

What is privilege?

Privilege is defined as a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group. Privilege is not the presence of rewards and benefits. It is the absence of obstacles and barriers. This is more difficult to notice. If you have a challenging time recognizing your privileged identities, focus on what you do not have to go through. Let that fuel your empathy and action.

Building Equity and Inclusion Through the Power of Language Words Matter!

The way we hold conversations and refer to one another has a powerful effect on how we treat and interact with those around us and therefore contributes to our community’s wellbeing. The following resources highlight ways in which you can avoid marginalization, misrepresentation, and the perpetuation of stereotypes by committing to inclusive language that acknowledges diversity, honors identities, and conveys respect.

5 Principles to Inclusive Language

1. Put People First:
   Address the individual first and place them above their characteristics. A “people-first” language keeps the individual as the most essential element; there is more to each of us than our descriptors.
   
   
2. Avoid Idioms, Jargon, and Acronyms:
   Jargon and acronyms can exclude people who may not have specialized knowledge of a particular subject, and this can limit effective communication. Only use acronyms after the full term has been expressed or clearly explained.
   
   
3. Avoid Phrases That Suggest Deficit:
   For example, “afflicted by,” “at-risk”, “minorities”. Instead use language that empowers, e.g. “People with disabilities” vs “the disabled”, “historically resilient” or “historically underrepresented” or “racially minoritized” (as termed by Dr. Tamara Stevenson of Westminster College) vs “minorities”.
   
   
4. Use Inclusive Terms:
   Try to make your language and your message as inclusive as possible. For example, when speaking to an audience, make sure your speech relates to all your listeners, honors identities, and uses gender-inclusive language.
   
   
5. If Unsure, Ask:
   Strive to include language that reflects peoples’ authentic selves.

Source: Adapted from Building Equity & Inclusion through the Power of Language | Utah Division Of Multicultural Affairs

Importance of Pronouns

Pronouns are one of the ways we portray our identities. When someone asks you to use their pronouns, they are asking for you to respect their identity. It is never safe to assume someone’s gender and it is a privilege that not everyone experiences. MyPronouns.org Resources on Personal Pronouns

Gender and Pronoun Guide

• Practice using gender-neutral language
• If you don’t know, respectfully ask
• If you mess up, it's okay – correct yourself
• When introducing yourself, including your pronouns, can cultivate a safe space for others to do the same

Chart of Pronouns (Most Common) 

• She/her/hers
• He/him/his
• They/them/theirs
• Ze/zir/zirs

Racial and Ethnic Disparity (RED) Reduction Grant

This grant was awarded to Eau Claire County Department of Human Services to reduce racial disparity in the juvenile justice system. There are four main objectives of the grant: data analysis of the youth justice decision-making process, obtain stakeholder feedback from the creation of a community stakeholder committee and youth interviews, enhanced opportunities for youth of color, and professional development for Department staff.

A Stakeholder Committee was created in July of 2022 and includes representation from Mentoring Programs for Youth of Color, schools, current and retired social work Professors, law enforcement agencies, Restorative Justice, Criminal Justice Collaborating Council, District Attorney’s office, City Employees, Human Services staff members, and youth and family members with lived experience.

The Vision Statement of the group is as follows: The Eau Claire County Department of Human Services (ECCDHS) honors the County equity resolution and is committed to reducing racial disparities to achieve equitable outcomes for youth of color. ECCDHS and community stakeholders will engage in a transparent continuous improvement process focusing on systemic shifts to policy, practice, and programming to intentionally support youth of color in the county.

Chippewa Valley Equality Initiative (CVEI)

The mission of Chippewa Valley Equality Initiative is to connect resources and organizations in the Chippewa Valley that support the cause of equity, access and inclusion for all, in one place.

There are many different resources offering assistance, mentorships, education, and more. Information is available for three primary categories: ways to get involved, resources for finding help, and a place to keep yourself informed.

Chippewa Valley Transformation Project

The Transformation Project’s goal is to create an anti-racist community; to lead the nation in becoming the most inclusive and affirming community for all people and to transform how community members live, grow, and thrive together in the Chippewa Valley.

Eau Claire Justice League

Eau Claire Justice League is a grassroots community organization that came together in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The organization directs their work to raising awareness of civil and human injustices worldwide and promoting immediate action services. 

Uniting Bridges

Uniting Bridges combines the forces of many local organizations advocating on behalf of under-represented groups. The organization bridges the gap between community organizations to create tangible change in the Chippewa Valley.

LGBTQIA+ Center of the Chippewa Valley

The center aims to provide services and programs that promote well-being and unity within & among the LGBTQ+ community. The center’s work also aims to promote understanding, tolerance, and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community and of individuals within that community in the Chippewa Valley region.

Black and Brown Womyn Power Coalition, Inc.

The Black and Brown Womyn Power Coalition is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focusing on building strong advocates and communities & centering people most impacted in their communities.

Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association

The Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association has provided services for Southeast Asian refugees in the Valley for nearly 50 years. They welcome community support in the form of volunteer efforts, food, or material donations, as well as financial contributions.

Power of Perception, LLC.

The Power of Perception is a mentoring program focused on creating opportunities for young individuals of color, as well as consulting services and speaking engagements.

JONAH Justice

Joining Our Neighbors Advancing Hope is a non-partisan organization using grassroots organizing to bring people in the Chippewa Valley together around social injustice and inequity to empower them to build a more just and healthy community for all.