DEFINITIONS
We know that language is important and impactful, so in addition to a plethora of resources, we have outlined foundational definitions that engage and support the work of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
- Diversity – numerical representation, appreciating social and cultural differences
- Equity – fairness, ensuring access and creating equivalent outcomes, addressing differences in power and privilege and ending systemic inequality
- Inclusion – sense of belonging, feeling valued, respected, and empowered
- Implicit Bias – the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.
- Racism – is prejudice plus power; anyone of any race can have/exhibit racial prejudice, but in North America, white people have the institutional power, therefore Racism is a systematized discrimination or antagonism directed against people of color based on the belief that whiteness is superior. It is insidious, systemic, devastating, and integral to understanding both the history of the United States and the everyday experiences of those of us living in this country.
- Note: A common, incorrect definition of racism is the colloquial definition: “racism is prejudice against someone based on their skin color or ethnicity and can be committed by anyone.” This is NOT an accurate definition nor the one used in most anti-racist circles. It highlights individuals' thinking and actions but ignores embedded institutional and cultural systems.
- Anti-racism – is strategies, theories, actions, and practices that challenge and counter racism, inequalities, prejudices, and discrimination based on
- Upstader – a person who speaks or acts in support of an individual or cause, particularly someone who intervenes on behalf of a person being attacked or bullied.
- Allyship – a lifelong process of building relationships based on trust, consistency, and accountability with marginalized individuals and/or groups of people. not self-defined—work and efforts must be recognized by those you are seeking to ally with.
Race and Ethnicity Terms & Definitions – Amherst College:
https://www.amherst.edu/campuslife/our-community/multicultural-resource-center/terms-and-definitions
