Defining Race and Equity

In order to understand how racism exists in our society, parents and caregivers should have an understanding of how race, equity, and related terms are defined and why they are important. When adults understand racism in our society, they can then teach their children. When children have this knowledge, they can aid in building a more equitable society for all of us (NAEYC).

Defining Race

The general definition for race is the color of one’s skin or one’s ancestry, which is different from ethnicity, culture, or beliefs (AECF). The American Psychological Association defines race and ethnicity in the following ways:

• “What is race? Race is a social construct that categorizes people based on their physical appearance.”
• “What is ethnicity? Ethnicity is a category of people who identify with each other based on shared ancestry, cultural, social, and national experiences.”

Understanding that race is a social construct is crucial. Early European ideologies created and promoted it to advance social and political desires. How race is viewed in America today is directly impacted by historical influence. Historically, defining race in America meant defining who was “white” and who wasn’t for voting and census purposes (Facing History).

Individuals can experience race in multiple different ways. Although a person may belong to more than one racial group, how others perceive them influences their treatment. Thus, race plays a critical role in understanding today’s society – it affects how others perceive individuals, the opportunities available to them, and what challenges they may face. Understanding that different races experience the world differently through this lens is the first step in understanding racism.

NAEYC defines racism as “a system of oppression that results from a combination of prejudice and power.” NAEYC goes on to specify that because racism is a system in which those in power can oppress those without power, the belief that racially based bias against white individuals is a misconception. “Anyone can hold a bias against people of another race, but only some races are subject to oppressive structures and practices as a result of that bias.”

This video from Flocabulary showcases the experiences of five different individuals as they learned about race as students. Learning about race and teaching children about race has a profound impact on how our society views race and racism.

Defining Equity

Equity is defined as “the state, quality or ideal of being just, impartial and fair” (AECF). It is important to think of equity as a systemic concept – some systems reinforce equity (or lack of equity), which makes it difficult for marginalized groups to obtain the same opportunities or outcomes as of white individuals.

Equity is not the same thing as equality. “Equity involves trying to understand and give people what they need to enjoy full, healthy lives. Equality, in contrast, aims to ensure that everyone gets the same things to enjoy full, healthy lives. Like equity, equality aims to promote fairness and justice, but it can only work if everyone starts from the same place and needs the same things.”

The Importance of Discussing Race and Equity with Your Child

Research shows that children who discuss race experience more positive outcomes. Additionally, teaching children about their history and community can buffer negative messages encountered at school, in the media, etc. Considering that racial biases may be present as young as six months old, it is never too early to begin discussing race with your child. Continue to explore resources on race and equity throughout the Developmentally Appropriate Parenting Series.