Diversity is a representation of individual identities, intersectionality, and differences that bring rich perspectives to the environment and conversations. Examples of diversity include, but are not limited to, differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs or other ideologies.
Equity requires the elimination of systemic barriers that have been deeply entrenched in systems of inequality and oppression. Equity achieves procedural and outcome fairness, promotes dignity, honor, and respect for all people. Equity ensures everyone has full access to the opportunities, power, and resources they need to flourish and achieve their full potential (Adapted from the WA 2020 Office of Equity Task Force).
Inclusion involves engaging all individuals and groups through deliberate, consistent, and action-based decision making and transparent communication at SCC. For inclusion to happen, there must be space where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are recognized, systemic and institutional barriers are removed, and underrepresented populations feel supported, respected, and valued, resulting in equitable outcomes for all.
Culturally competent: The ability to successfully interact with people of different backgrounds and recognize differences in experience. Being culturally competent is a continual process that involves ongoing critical examination of one’s attitudes, awareness, knowledge, and skills in order to negotiate cross-cultural differences to complete tasks and/or create positive living, learning and working environments.
Culturally appropriate: Affirming culturally diverse individuals, families, and communities in an inclusive, respectful, and effective manner, including materials and instruction that are inclusive of race, ethnicity, language, cultural background, immigration status, religion, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and sexual behavior.
Historically marginalized communities: Marginalization means to systemically exclude, ignore, or relegate a group of people to an unimportant or powerless position in society. Marginalized groups have restricted access to resources like education and healthcare for achieving their aims (See also: “Systemically Marginalized”).
Communities of color: Groups of people who are not identified as white (see glossary of terms for whiteness definition), with emphasis on common experiences of racism.
Low-income communities: Applies to an individual whose household's taxable income for the preceding year did not exceed 150% of the poverty line. This includes individuals with less disposable income than others, living paycheck to paycheck within a community, or simply those who struggle to pay bills or are affected by low job security.
Community organization: Service agencies located in and aimed at making desired improvements to a community or neighborhood’s social health, well-being, and overall functioning. Community organization occurs in geographically, psychosocially, culturally, spiritually, and digitally bounded communities.