Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are more than just buzzwords; they are foundational principles that should guide our interactions and shape our society. As a registered blind individual with Fibromyalgia, born in the UK to parents from Turkey, I have experienced the enormous impact of inequality and discrimination firsthand. My slightly darker skin and foreign name made me a target for bullying during my primary school years, and I have continued to inequalities such as discrimination throughout my life, mostly relating to my health condition. Over my 27-year journey, these experiences have driven my passion for advocating change. After earning my Level 2 qualification in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, I am eager to share my insights and reflections on this crucial topic.
Understanding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are often conflated, but they each have distinct meanings and implications:
- Equality ensures that everyone has access to the same opportunities. It is about creating a level playing field where no one is disadvantaged because of their background, characteristics, or circumstances.
- Diversity values the differences between people, recognising that each individual brings unique perspectives and experiences.
- Inclusion measures how safe and welcome people feel in their environment. It’s about fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and can contribute fully.
These definitions highlight the nuanced nature of EDI (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) and underscore the importance of addressing all three aspects to achieve a truly equitable society.
The Current State of Equality in Britain
Despite efforts by successive British governments and the implementation of laws like the Equality Act 2010, complete social equality in Britain remains elusive. Inequalities persist in wealth distribution, social status, and access to opportunities. The Equality Act 2010 is a critical piece of legislation designed to promote equality and protect individuals from discrimination, but there is still much work to be done to ensure its effective implementation across all sectors.
Personal Experiences of Inequality
My journey has been fraught with challenges, and the adversity I have faced have often left me feeling hopeless, as well as isolated and excluded from society. These experiences have shaped my perspective and strengthened my resolve to advocate for change. Here are a few key reflections from my personal journey:
- Dis(ability) and Creativity: Living with a ‘disability’ requires immense patience and creativity. Society often overlooks the needs of ‘(dis)abled’ individuals, forcing us to think outside the box to navigate daily life. This creative problem-solving is a valuable skill, but it should not be necessary. Society must adopt a collective approach to accessibility, ensuring that it is a shared responsibility rather than an individual burden. As Victoria Jenkins states in her TED Talk, “Disability can happen to any of us at any given moment, so accessibility should concern us all”.
- Accessibility in Practice: Many organisations claim to have accessible venues, but the reality often falls short. For instance, a venue located on a busy, windy road with no crossings is not truly accessible, even if it has ground-floor offices and disabled parking bays. True accessibility requires taking on feedback from individuals with experience of (dis)ability and consultation with dis(ability) specialists to address the diverse needs of all people.
- The Power of Legislation: The Equality Act 2010 is a powerful tool for promoting equality, but it is only effective if there is widespread understanding and adherence to its principles. Discrimination in the workplace, for example, can persist due to a lack of awareness or deliberate ignorance of the law.
The Importance of Equality
Equality is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for a healthy and productive society. When everyone has the same opportunities to succeed, it leads to a more innovative and dynamic community. Organisations that embrace equality benefit from diverse perspectives, which can drive creativity and better decision-making.
Discrimination and Its Impact
Discrimination, whether conscious or unconscious, significantly undermines an organisation’s ability to harness the full potential of its workforce. A climate that fosters, condones, or ignores discrimination cannot thrive. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) highlights that such environments limit organisational effectiveness and stifle growth.
Types of Inequalities
Inequality manifests in various forms, each with significant implications:
- Political Inequality: Underrepresentation of minority groups in political processes can lead to policies that do not address the needs of all community members.
- Health Inequality: Access to healthcare often correlates with socioeconomic status, with wealthier individuals enjoying better and faster treatment than those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Legal Inequality: Despite the Equality Act, discrimination persists in the workplace and other areas due to a lack of understanding or access to legal recourse.
Stereotyping and Its Damaging Effects
Stereotypes are simplistic and often harmful generalisations about groups of people. They can lead to prejudice and discrimination, negatively affecting individuals’ psychological well-being and social inclusion. Stereotyping can also perpetuate economic disadvantages, as individuals may be unfairly judged based on their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
Conclusion
My experiences as a registered blind individual with Fibromyalgia and as someone who was born in the UK with parents from Turkey, have given me a unique perspective on the challenges of achieving true equality, diversity, and inclusion. While progress has been made, there is still a long way to go. It is crucial for society to adopt a collective approach to accessibility and actively seek feedback from those affected by inequality. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone.
In closing, let us remember that everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, has something valuable to contribute. With patience, creativity, and a commitment to change, we can overcome adversity and build a society that truly embraces equality, diversity, and inclusion.
And remember, we can only teach those who want to learn.
Here’s to honouring our lives and the gifts that we have and have experienced – in aim to make the world.a better place.
By sharing our stories and advocating for change, we can shine a light on the path towards a more inclusive and just society.
Thank you for taking the time to read this page. If you would like to see more of my work in regards to bringing awareness to thhemes such as: Equalitym Diversity and Inclusion within the realms of (dis)ability, please do continue onto my Youube Channel. Specific links are below:
Disability Awareness Panel in Brighton (featuring a few special special guests!).
BLIND IN MARAKESH: Navigating Challenges & Facing Discrimination at YSL Gardens
Nazan, at Nazan Visions
References
- People Insight. (2024). Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: Understanding the Difference. Accessed 24/6/24.
- Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). (n.d.). Discrimination and the Workplace.