You’ve probably heard the word equity in politics – but what does it actually mean? And how is it different from equality?
Here’s the simple version:
- Equality means everyone gets the same thing.
- Equity means everyone gets what they need to succeed.
Picture this: three birds are trying to reach nectar from a kōwhai tree. The kererū is the tallest and can easily reach the flowers. The tūī stretches up but still can’t quite reach. The small pīwakawaka can’t reach the blossoms at all.
- Equality means giving each bird the same length perch. The kererū doesn’t need it, the tūī still can’t quite reach, and the pīwakawaka is still far off.
- Equity means giving more support to the birds that need it, maybe a small boost for the tūī and a bigger one for the pīwakawaka, so all three birds can get to the nectar.
This example demonstrates that equity is about giving people what they need to achieve the same outcome, not just giving everyone the same thing.
Equity recognises that people start from different places and face different challenges. It isn’t about “special treatment” - it’s about fairness – ensuring everyone has the chance to reach the same outcome.
We see equity everywhere: schools provide extra support for students who need it, workplaces accommodate diverse needs, health services focus on those facing barriers, and community programmes tailor support so no one gets left behind.
When policies and services are designed with equity in mind, life becomes fairer for everyone. Barriers are removed, opportunities are shared, and no one is left behind.
That’s what equity is all about: building a community where everyone can thrive – no matter where they start from.