Equity over equality

Saisha Aggarwal
Fairness isn’t about equality, but equity.
While many of us are familiar with the word equality, we do not know much about equity. When placed side by side, they
may appear to mean the same thing, but that is not the case. While they both have something to do with the way people
are treated, they differ from each other a lot.
Equality is used in the sense that everyone gets an equal share. Still, many people disagree with something being “just”
or “fair”. Equity, however, is an attempt to act based on certain conditions. It is about taking a rational and logical
decision rather than just plainly handing out equal access or equal opportunities. Equality does not follow proportionality
in representation and may lead to negative discrimination. It is not concerned about the gaps between different races or
religions. The principle of equity can work even if people do not start from the same point, but we can not say the same
for equality, that can only be put into effect if people start from the same point. By equality, you are giving some people
what they “want”, but by equity, you are giving “everyone” what they “need”. In an equitable approach, people may be
treated differently – but they are always treated fairly.
Inequity can be seen in education. Educating everyone – regardless of their performance / ability is not enough for those
who are specially weak in such. So, to overcome this, extra classes for those who actually need them should be arranged.
Same can be seen in workplaces. While equal salary may be given to everyone, it does not reason with those who need
more and are financially unstable. Hence, it should be looked upon each individual’s own perspective.
Equity aims to identify and eliminate barriers that prevent the full participation for some groups. So, overall, to attain an
equal world, equity should be put over equality.