DEI Glossary

Underrepresented
People who have historically not had representation because of barriers to inclusion. These might include factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, religion, ability, socioeconomic status, culture, age, and/or livelihood, etc. 

Diversity
At the School of Design, diversity is defined broadly to mean the presence of difference within our contained environments. 

Equity 
Equity recognizes that when people come together in groups, power is unequally distributed. Some individuals have advantages while others have disadvantages. Equity, as a process, is the very intentional approach organizations take to ensure that everyone has access to the same opportunities and that those starting from disadvantage are given the chance to grow, contribute, learn, and develop. 

Inclusion 
Inclusion supports individuals with different identities to feel they belong within the group because they are valued, relied upon, welcomed, and empowered. 

Allyship 
Allyship means showing up to act in solidarity with disempowered peoples without centering yourself or worldview. We need people to do this even if they cannot fully understand what it’s like to be disadvantaged because of race or ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, class, religion, or other markers of identity. 

School of Design Community
Faculty, Staff, Students, Researchers, and Alumni 

Social Justice
Social justice can be defined as the intentional work, policy and practice to promote systemic equality, equity, respect, and the assurance of rights within and between social groups, and communities. 

Source for definitions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: How to Talk about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion By Alida Miranda-Wolff