Fairness was discussed in relation to the values of the entity one operates in, and some noted that what is fair can differ between people.

Kia ora everyone. We thoroughly enjoyed our intimate session with our friend Jonah as we considered the prompt questions: how do you define equity, and what is one thing you believe it should achieve? 

The conversation highlighted various perspectives, including agency, fairness, and justice as fundamental aspects of equity. Equity was seen as a means to unlock flourishing, prevent dead ends, and create a landscape of people reaching for their aspirations. There was a strong feeling of the importance of recognising and supporting other people's passions, and working together towards what is possible.

Fairness was discussed in relation to the values of the entity one operates in, and some noted that what is fair can differ between people. The discussion emphasised that equity is an action word that requires collaborative efforts towards balancing power and resources. We believe that equity can help create a more just and inclusive society by recognising individual and collective aspirations, supporting well-being, and working towards shared goals.

Overall, we defined equity as centred on the importance of agency and fairness, as well as the need for balanced action. We agreed that equity cannot be imposed from the top-down, but must be a collaborative effort that empowers individuals to take action. We will keep that question highlighted on our shared Miro board and can continue to add to it at any time.

The focus question for our next cuppa is centred around hearing and listening to stories and concepts about where equity is working. It’s often super easy to think about where equity is not occurring, and we easily default to deficit conversations, which can perpetuate some ‘stuckness’ if we don’t move past it. 

Next week, we are wanting to see if we can find strengths in places where equity is working well, and therefore consider what is helping equity to be maintained, be balanced or ‘work well’.

Focus Discussion: Think about an example where equity is working well.

Mauriora, 
The Walk Together Team