In a culture immersed in instant gratification, it is not uncommon to forget a few steps when working to achieve our goals. The United States is currently in an uproar over freshly inaugurated Donald J. Trump. Advocacy groups in every state are marching, protesting and fighting tooth and nail for their voices to be heard. On their front it seems as if we understand the goals of these groups, however, neither the people fighting or the people listening may truly understand what they are fighting for.

Are Feminist groups fighting for gender equity or gender equality?

Do the National Parks need economic equity or equality in order to survive?

Questions such as these need to be answered before a tweet is sent, a sign is made or a group is gathered to fight for what they believe in.

Here are the definitions needed to fully understand the issue at hand:

Equity: the quality of being fair or impartial.

Equality: the state or quality of being equal.

When the United States comes to mind people often think of one's ability to follow their dreams, the American dream. As a whole, the American dream is a strong example of equality. Every citizen of the United States is presented with the same opportunity to gain whatever they desire out of life.

Equity, in comparison, often presents itself in the form of affirmative action programs in education. For example, there are multiple demographics that are found to be represented in much smaller numbers at the university level. In order to correct this imbalance, affirmative action programs have been developed that give specific demographics a helping hand in order to level the playing field for all demographics.

Now that we understand what these two words mean it is easier to figure out what these groups are truly asking for. Many groups just want to be treated with fairness and respect which falls under the category of equality. Other groups need someone or something to aid them in achieving their goals; this falls under the category of equity. Either way, understanding whether equity or equality is needed will increase the effectiveness of ones actions toward achieving their goals.

While I will not come to conclusions on controversial topics I encourage everyone to do their research with this newfound knowledge. The ability to determine whether societal groups need equity or equality is of vast importance.

Are Feminist groups fighting for gender equity or gender equality?

Do the National Parks need economic equity or equality in order to survive?

You decide.

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