Terminology and Definitions
Here you will find additional information about terminology and definitions that our campus feels are important to create a common language when discussing concepts related to inclusion and diversity. It is important to note that while this information is a great place to start, there is more to be learned regarding inclusion and diversity. As terminology and language is ever-changing, we encourage self-reflection and self-education.
This learning process is uncomfortable and discomfort is necessary for learning and growth. However, being uncomfortable in a space where race, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other identities are being discussed is human nature, and it is not synonymous with being unsafe. In fact, creating a truly safe space for all may not always mean creating a comfortable space for all.
Our goal in providing some basic information is to create a campus culture where we are all respectful of others. This does not mean that you will not make mistakes; mistakes happen and this is a learning process. However, when you make a mistake, demonstrate respect by acknowledging your error, apologizing, reflecting, learning, and moving forward.
Privilege operates on personal, interpersonal, cultural, and institutional levels and gives advantages, favors, and benefits to members of dominant groups at the expense of members of target groups.
Marginalization is the social process of being relegated to a lower social standing based on an individual’s membership to a social group other than the dominant culture. Being marginalized means not having full and equal access to the cultural, economic, political, and social institutions of society based on a real or perceived identity. Like all forms of oppression, this can happen to an individual, a community, and through institutional barriers.
Intersectionality is the acknowledgement that within groups of people with a common identity, whether it be gender, sexuality, religion, race, or one of the many other defining aspects of identity, there exist differences among the group based on each individual’s other identities. In other words, the intersection of an individual’s identities reflects an intersection of overlapping oppressions. Therefore, sweeping generalizations about the struggle or power of a particular group fail to recognize that individuals in the group may also experience other forms of marginalization.
Sexual Orientation is an inherent or immutable enduring emotional, romantic or sexual attraction to other people.
Gender Identity is one's innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither – how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. One's gender identity can be the same or different from their sex assigned at birth.
Gender Expression is the external appearance of one's gender identity, usually expressed through behavior, clothing, haircut or voice, and which may or may not conform to socially defined behaviors and characteristics typically associated with being either masculine or feminine.
Pronouns are used in lieu of continually using someone’s name. The most common pronouns are he/him/his and she/her/hers when you are talking about one person and they/them/theirs when talking either about one person or a group of people. In our society, we automatically assume pronouns, which are based on our guess of someone's gender identity. Rather than guess, it is better to either ask or use the person's name instead of assuming their correct pronouns. One way to learn another person's pronouns is when you introduce yourself, you can include your pronouns for the other person.
Microaggressions are a comment or action that subtly and often unconsciously or unintentionally expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a member of a marginalized group.
Hate and Bias
Bias Incidents are acts of conduct, speech, or expression to which a bias motive based upon actual or perceived identities is evident as a contributing factor (regardless of whether the act is criminal).
Hate Crimes are a criminal offense committed against a person which is motivated, in whole or in part, by the offender’s bias against race, religion, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, or disability. A hate crime is a bias incident that has risen to the level of a crime. All hate crimes are hate incidents, but not all incidents are crimes. Per the Clery Act, hate crimes can include any of the following offenses that are motivated by bias: 1) Murder and non-negligent manslaughter, 2) sexual assault, 3) robbery, 4) aggravated assault, 5) motor vehicle theft, 6) arson, 7) larceny-theft, 8) simple assault, 9) intimidation, or 10) destruction, damage, vandalism of property.
Equality vs. Equity vs. Liberation
When looking at the difference between equality, equity, and liberation, it’s important to start with understanding that this discussion surrounds the idea of sameness versus fairness.
Equality emphasizes the idea of sameness by treating everyone the same. But equality can only work if everyone starts from the same place and needs the same help.
Equity is about fairness and making sure people get access to the same opportunities. Equity approaches individuals from a human rights perspective, recognizing that their humanity entitles them to the right to demand fair treatment, and understands that, due to the inequitable past, accurately proportioned alterations are necessary. Another layer to this conversation surrounds the concept of liberation.
Liberation extends beyond amending past wrongs and the conditional support of systems that innately operate from exploitation. Instead, liberation seeks to dismantle systems of oppression, in favor of liberatory ways of being that the people themselves decide.
Inclusive language is key to respecting an individual’s identity. There is much discussion in different communities about preferences for person-first or identity-first language, and, in the end, it is up to each individual which they prefer. While there is no one best way to address every person, it is important to know the difference between the two, and respect the preferences of those you interact with.
Person-first language focuses on placing the person first before the identity.
Identity-first language places the identity before the person.
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