An International Women's Day Article: What is the Difference Between Equality and Equity?

What is the difference between equality and equity?

That is the age-old question. For centuries, women have experienced unfair and inequitable treatment in their careers, politics, and even the church, not to mention in the home. This year, as we commemorate International Women's Day, let us celebrate and appreciate the value and impact women bring to the table in whatever capacity they undertake. 

But, I would be remiss if I did not make special mention of Black women—strong Black women all over the world who blazed the trails not only on sexism but on the double consciousness of being Black and female at the same time. Not only were they instrumental in charting the path for women's suffrage and the feminist movement, but they also fought for the rights and dignity of Blacks or coloured folks in all things human. 

To quote Audre Lorde: "Women are powerful and dangerous." By that, I take it to mean don't mess with women; even though they may seem small and weak, they are impeccably strong and resilient, and are coming for everything that was ever taken from them. They can and will bring substantial harm to males' fragile egos.

So what does all that have to do with equality and equity? Well, International Women's Day is a day to globally recognize the magnanimous contributions of women, past and present, to our global and local economy, social and cultural stability, spiritual and political prosperity. Put them all together and we get individual and national well-being.

Having said that, equality means giving everyone the same resources and opportunities regardless of their advantages or disadvantages. In contrast, equity recognizes the differences in circumstances of each individual or community, allocates resources and opportunities proportionately or as needed to level the playing field, and arrives at a fair outcome. 

In other words, equality exacerbates inequality while equity appeases or remedies it. Equity addresses the root cause of imbalance and, thus, eradicates systemic barriers. Our predominantly white and patriarchal society has put up many obstacles for Black folks, and Black folks, particularly Black women, have done everything they can to ensure that those barriers are taken down—literally.

This is why I am giving a special shout-out to strong Black women like Rosa Parks, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Mary Church Terrell, Audre Lorde and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, to name a few, for sticking with their grit and fighting the fight for radical and fair reformation on women's issues such as women's reproductive rights, maternity leave, domestic violence, equal pay for equal work, sexual violence and harassment, racial equality, the right to women's education, and of course, women's right to vote and hold office. 

I recognize and salute all women for the mistreatment they endure in the struggle for equal human rights and justice. Keep up the good fight. Historically, women have always suffered, under-appreciated and disenfranchised. So wear something pink or purple on March 8 to commemorate women's contribution to life and liberty.

Until next time,

Be Blessed. Be Bold. Be Strong. Be You!