What is EDI? To facilitate the understanding of the concepts of equity, diversity and inclusion, here are some definitions. They are taken from the training Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education and Research: What They Are and Why They Are Needed produced by the Chair for Women in Science and Engineering (Quebec).
Equity refers to a feeling or perception of fairness with regard to a given situation. It refers to an approach to correcting historic disadvantages between groups. For example, UNESCO defines gender equity as follows: “Process of being fair to men and women. To ensure fairness, measures must often be put in place to compensate for the historical and social disadvantages that prevent women and men from operating on a level playing field. Equity is a mean. Equality is the result.”
Diversity refers to a group of individuals who differ in their identity; geographic, cultural or religious origin; age, sex, gender or sexual orientation; academic discipline; etc.
Inclusion means taking steps to establish an environment in which diversity is respected and all members of the community are fully integrated and supported in ways that promote their well-being and achievement. It means making a sustained commitment to welcome, integrate and support members of designated groups and help them advance.
For more information, download the summary sheet Main concepts from the training Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education and Research: What They Are and Why They Are Needed. In addition, access the online training capsules on the Chair for Women in Science and Engineering (Quebec) website. All content will soon be available in English online.
