Table 1.
Glossary of terms that are closely related to equity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Ableism | Discrimination and/or prejudice against persons with any form of disability (e.g., physical, intellectual). Persons are defined by their disabilities, and are characterized as inferior to the non-disabled. |
| Ageism | Stereotyping, discrimination and/or prejudice against persons on the basis of their age, typically against older members of society. |
| Accessibility | Accommodations are made to remove barriers to participation, resulting in the ability for all to participate. |
| Anti-oppression | The strategies, theories, actions, and practices that challenge systems of oppression |
| Cultural Safety | An outcome of reflective and aware practice and policy, where providers and organizations address bias and barriers contributing to inequities. It is the recipient of care, and not the provider, who determines if cultural safety is present or not. |
| Decolonization | Regaining inherent rights and power for self-determination of societal structure, services and investments. |
| Diversity | The greatest possible representation of attributes are present within the collective. |
| Equity | Attainment of fairness and justice, with imbalances addressed. |
| Homophobia | Stereotyping, discrimination and/or prejudice against persons on the basis of being lesbian, gay, queer or bisexual. |
| Inclusion | Acts and approaches that ensure that all persons are equally welcomed, supported, valued and respected. |
| Intersectionality | Interactions or synergies which arise from being a member of multiple populations facing inequities, and which results in a unique experience. |
| Meritocracy | System of awarding opportunities and status on the basis of ability and performance, but which neglects acknowledging structural inequities that limit opportunities for all members of society. |
| Racism | Stereotyping, discrimination and/or prejudice against persons on the basis of their race. |
| Sexism | Stereotyping, discrimination and/or prejudice against persons on the basis of their sex typically against those individuals that identify as women. |
| Genderism | Stereotyping, discrimination and/or prejudice against persons on the basis of their gender. |
| Social justice | Approach promoting that each person has the right to the full spectrum of economic, political, and social rights and opportunities. |