This month in Soul Matters we will explore one of the values proposed as part of the revision to Article 2 of our Bylaws: Justice and Equity.   Here is a definition I found that gives a clear presentation of these terms:

Equity is distinct and different from equality, and both are different from justice.

Equality requires that every person or community receives the exact same resources and opportunities. Equity, however, acknowledges that everyone doesn’t start from the same place in life. People and communities have been differentially impacted by a variety of circumstances, structures, and historical contexts that have intentionally advantaged some, while unjustly and intentionally disadvantaging others. As a result, those who have been disadvantaged require a differential allocation of resources and opportunities.

At its core, equity requires acknowledgement, accountability, and action: acknowledging that structural injustices have caused disproportionate harm, being accountable and taking responsibility for harms, and taking action to remedy harms. However, these actions and remedies must give disproportionately more to those who have been harmed most. Equity requires that all individuals and populations are valued equally, historical injustices are recognized and rectified, and resources are provided according to need.

Justice embraces these requirements but goes a step further: It requires repairing and transforming circumstances, structures, contexts, and systems themselves so that they achieve and sustain equity and justice through proactive and preventative measures.

Have a great month! 
Materials for Individual Reflection Feb 2024 (PDF)