Belonging ≠ Equity

In light of recent changes to Elmhurst University’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, there’s been a slight shift in language that catches my eye, and I’m not too sure how I feel about it.

While EU has made strides towards filling the space Bruce King leaves behind, it’s become apparent that they’re looking to change the way these efforts are framed. With the promotion of Alexander Blumenberg to ‘Special Assistant to the President for Belonging and Inclusion,’ and the recent interviews for a new ‘Director for Student Inclusion and Belongingness,’ one word has slipped in that wasn’t there prior–at least not in name.

And you might think, it’s the change of a single word, get over yourself. And you’d be within your right to critique me for that, but here’s why the change of a single world is more than just that.

Belonging is great, it’s something we all should strive to have within our organizations–especially one like EU. It’s the idea that everyone feels they have a space somewhere, that you and the person next to you, regardless of background, both feel that there’s room for you here.

Not only is this a basic need, but it’s also something that from a business standpoint is great for EU in terms of retention rates. If students feel that they belong, they’ll want to stay; if they want to stay, they’ll want to succeed.

Equity, on the other hand, is entirely different. Granted, it’s the middleman in the highly politicized term ‘DEI,’ but while it may get lost in the middle of that acronym, it’s the most important part.

The very idea of equity is leveling the playing field for those who are disproportionately disadvantaged. It considers historical and sociopolitical factors that have impacted the fairness of hiring practices, opportunities for advancement, and other aspects of professional life that have left some people throughout history a step behind everyone else.

EU has done a great job with its equity work, so far. Institutions like El Centro de la Promesa Azul are a shining example. The Center, and those running it, have done great work instituting resources to help students with financial literacy, career planning, mental and physical wellness, and even finding and being paid for internships.

This is a great start, and I’m in no way looking to discredit the work EU has done. But the question I have now is, why are they trying to hide it?

Equity is a great thing, mainly because if you’re doing it right, no one will know it’s there–or question your efforts at all. That doesn’t mean that it should be shoehorned out in favor of focusing on what I would call a watered-down attempt at a replacement.

Belonging is important, but equity is vital–and they are two entirely different concepts that should be treated as such.

EU, don’t shy away from equity–embrace it.