JEDI Definitions

Everyone has their own concept of what justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) mean. The following definitions frame my pedagogical and professional work.

What is Diversity?

People differ in many ways, both in visible and invisible characteristics that influence individual and group identity and life experience. These characteristics may include, but are not limited to, race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status, language, culture, national origin, religion/spirituality, age, ability, and military/veteran status.

When we embrace a diverse group of individuals and perspectives, we enrich our learning spaces and broaden our own understanding. Our lived experiences provide a narrow view of the world; by including diverse voices, we can deepen our understanding and develop more creative and effective solutions to critical societal problems.

What is Equity?

Simply providing everyone with “a seat at the table” is not enough. Our society was built on a history of colonization and oppression—a system that benefits some groups over others. For example, in the United States, the average white family’s wealth is nearly 10 times that of the average Black family’s wealth.

Therefore, we must actively work to counter uneven social power and white supremacy. Equity means ensuring everyone has the support and opportunity they need to succeed. This doesn’t mean equal support and opportunity, as we don’t all experience the same barriers. We must implement policies to actively respond to systemic racism and other forms of discrimination, bias, and harassment.

What is Inclusion?

Inclusion means actively cultivating an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to participate fully. An inclusive space is built on self-awareness, where we recognize our unconscious biases and the roles we play in social power dynamics.

Only with equity and inclusion can a diverse group of individuals truly thrive.

What is Justice?

Justice means dismantling the systemic barriers to resources and opportunities in society so that all individuals and communities can live a full and dignified life. It involves not just addressing the symptoms of inequality but also working to change the underlying systems that create it.

What is an Inclusive & Equitable Classroom?

An inclusive and equitable classroom is a space where all students feel they belong and valued for their ideas and contributions. Students are welcomed into intellectual discussions, supported in their learning, and have full access to the learning opportunities and tools they need to succeed.

Students are treated fairly and equitably, not necessarily equally, no matter their background or intersecting identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, ability, age, etc.)