Independent Newsmedia
By Thomas Richard | Sun City West
What is the goal of eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion in governmental policy? Having a homogenous body of leaders that are white, middle age, mostly male, with an abundance of “yes” men bowing to the whim of the leader?
Diversity is variety, involving people from different social and ethnic backgrounds, education, financial status or skin color. Ever wonder why we have “BR-31” flavors of ice cream? The choice would be so much easier if vanilla was the only flavor on the menu. Everyone would agree, “Vanilla is best!” How about a society of people? If everyone was the same color, belief and background, wouldn’t life get as boring as the choice of only one flavor?
Equity is important in the context of a social structure of fairness and justice. Contrasted with equality, equity recognizes that people have different starting points and may need different support to achieve similar outcomes. Systemic disadvantages exist, whether from being a member of a minority, uneducated or hindered by physical or intellectual disabilities. Denying equity is submitting to a false reality.
Inclusion is being included within the whole; providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who otherwise might be excluded or marginalized. ADA is an excellent example of leveling the playing field, including people with physical and intellectual disabilities.
People held back due to preconceived beliefs, traditional job roles and disliking someone because they look, speak or act differently are all terrible examples of non-inclusion. WWII created non-traditional job roles for women. Today, they fill roles in construction, manufacturing and many male-only jobs of the past.
What is the end game? We need DEI! We need diversity of thought, cultures and a choice of flavors. From Plymouth Rock to Ellis Island to the wharfs of San Francisco, we are a land of immigrants bound by the creed “…and Justice for all.” The sum of the parts make us a stronger nation.
Let’s not let the USA be ruled by oligarchs and a con-man who is leading us to a life of submissiveness, and the choice of only one flavor.
Editor’s note: This writer is using a pen name. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
