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Why this letter matters
This letter protests the fact that the Government of Canada’s Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology entirely mischaracterizes the right to equality protected by the Canadian Charter, human rights legislation and international law. It defines equality as treating everyone in the same manner without considering people's unique experiences and differing situations, contrasting equality with equity, which considers people’s differing circumstances and aims to achieve fair outcomes. In fact, substantive equality is the animating norm in Canadian law and has long required attention to disadvantage, adverse effects, accommodation of difference and systemic discrimination.
We wholeheartedly support policies and strategies designed to support and enhance what we believe is intended by "equity, diversity and inclusion". However, the Guide's definitions of "equality" and "equity" undermine the meaning of the right to equality that has been established in Canadian law.