MAKING EQUITY REAL

Much of the work of understanding what equity means and making it "real" for others to share in a prescribed vision is "big picture stuff." As organizations or their leaders—especially philanthropic organizations— explore the concept of equity, it is critical that they take steps to work toward a common vision, develop trust, and to ultimately "put a face on" equity.

Below are some steps that can be taken to help leaders or organizations make the concept of equity real for themselves and others with regard to effecting social change.

• Find common ground. Take time to listen, share points of view and experiences, build trust, and develop a common language with regard to equity, social justice, and social change.
  
  
• Talk about race. Honest and open dialogue does not have to divide people. Through experienced facilitation, conversations on race can bring people together when each better understands the views and experiences of others.
  
  
• Define equity. Be clear—as individuals and as organizations—about what is meant by equity?
  
  
• Develop a vision for an equitable society. What are the aspects of an equitable society; what would that society look like? Likewise, what are the barriers that exist that must be overcome to reach an equitable society?