DEI – What is it?
DEI stands for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
It is the ability to embrace differences among groups while protecting them from discrimination. Focusing on representation, fairness, and equal opportunities with a particular interest in the nine protected characteristics:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender Reassignment
- Marriage/Civil Partnership
- Pregnancy and Maternity
- Race
- Religion or Belief
- Sex
- Sexual Orientation
Learn more about the nine protected characteristics here.
Diversity
Diversity refers to how diverse or varied your workplace or group is. Aiming to attract diverse talent with different demographic characteristics, identities and experiences can improve a company’s work in many ways. Everyone should also then be free to be themselves to contribute and bring fresh perspectives.
Inclusion
This should mean a place where everyone feels respected, empowered, and valued. Everyone should have access and can contribute in a way where identity doesn’t hold them back. It is the foundation of what our human rights are.
Equity
Equity is recognising historical legacies and current realities of discrimination that marginalized groups may experience. It encourages fair processes, treatments and possibilities for everyone, resulting in an equal place for all.
It involves redistributing resources to diminish the impact of discrimination or inequality to help ensure similar opportunities.
Why is DEI Important?
There are many reasons, but here are a few:
- Brings new perspectives
- Reduces an unconscious bias towards a specific group
- Ensures ideas are fresh and interesting
- Helps employers spot and solve problems
- It can lead to a more productive workforce
Check out the videos below to meet some of the members of our DEI panel and understand why they think DEI is important.
More Information
Discover opportunities to make a difference on our #YSHive page.