What is gender equality and equity? Is the same? Because it is important?

In recent years, gender equality and equity have become widely discussed and sought-after concepts in society. However, there is often some confusion between these terms, which can make it difficult to fully understand what they mean and why they are important. In this article, we will explain what gender equality and equity mean, clarify their differences, and analyze the importance of working towards a society based on these principles.

What is gender equality?

Gender equality refers to the fundamental principle of granting all people, regardless of gender, the same rights, opportunities and responsibilities in all areas of life.

This involves eliminating any form of gender-based discrimination and ensuring that men, women and people of other gender identities have equal access to education, employment, political participation and decision-making.

Gender equality does not mean that men and women are identical in all aspects, but rather that their rights and opportunities must be respected and valued in the same way. It recognizes and respects biological differences and individual experiences, but seeks to eliminate gender barriers and stereotypes that limit each person's full potential. You can also promote gender equality from wherever you are with these actions .

Characteristics of gender equality

1. Non-discrimination : Gender equality involves eliminating any form of discrimination based on gender. All people, regardless of gender, should have equal rights and opportunities, and should not be denied any benefits or access because of their gender identity.
2. Equal rights and responsibilities : Ensures that men and women, as well as people of other gender identities, have the same legal, political, economic and social rights. This includes rights such as political participation, access to education, decent employment, health care and decision-making in all areas.
3. Equity in opportunities : It involves providing equal opportunities for all people, regardless of gender. This means ensuring access to education, training, employment, resources and leadership positions, without barriers based on gender.
4. Elimination of gender stereotypes : Seeks to challenge and overcome traditional gender stereotypes and roles that limit the potential of men and women. It seeks to promote the idea that skills, interests and abilities are not determined by gender, and that all people should have the freedom to choose their path in life.
5. Equal participation and representation : Promotes equal participation and representation of men and women in all areas of life, including politics, economics, science, culture and leadership. This implies the need to eliminate barriers and biases that prevent the full and equal participation of all genders.
6. Respect and appreciation of diversity : Recognize and value the diversity of gender identities and respect different experiences and perspectives. It is not just about equality between men and women, but also about recognizing and supporting all people, regardless of how they identify in terms of gender.

What is gender equality?

Gender equity, on the other hand, refers to the fair distribution of resources, power and opportunities to ensure that all people, regardless of their gender, have the same possibilities for personal development and fulfillment. Unlike equality, which treats everyone the same, equity recognizes that some people may need additional support because of the historical and structural disadvantages they have faced.

Equity involves addressing existing gender inequalities and taking steps to correct disparities. This may include policies and programs that promote equal opportunity, the redistribution of resources, and the removal of systemic barriers that hinder the advancement of certain groups.

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Characteristics of gender equality

1. Recognition of inequalities : Gender equity is based on the recognition of existing inequalities between genders, both in terms of access to resources and in opportunities and power. It recognizes that certain groups have historically been marginalized and excluded due to their gender, and seeks to correct these inequalities.
2. Corrective actions : Taking specific measures to address inequalities and ensure a fair distribution of resources and opportunities. This may include policies and programs aimed at closing the gender gap and promoting the inclusion of underrepresented groups.
3. Equal opportunities : Seeks to ensure that all people, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to access education, employment, health care and other key areas of life. This involves removing barriers that prevent certain groups from accessing these opportunities and developing their potential.
4. Redistribution of resources : It involves the fair redistribution of resources to address existing inequalities. This may include policies that promote equal pay, the equitable allocation of budgets and resources, and the removal of economic barriers that disproportionately affect certain groups.
5. Empowerment : Empowers people, especially those who have been historically marginalized, to have a voice, decision-making power, and control over their lives. The active participation and decision-making of people in all areas is encouraged, promoting equitable representation in spaces of leadership and power.
6. Sensitivity to diversity : Recognizes diversity within gender groups and considers people's different experiences and needs. It is not just about equality based on binary gender, but about taking into account diverse gender identities and intersections with other forms of oppression and discrimination. Have you read about lesbian feminism? We leave you an article to promote diversity .

The importance of equality and gender equity

Gender equality and equity are important for building a fair, inclusive and sustainable society. Here are some reasons why they are essential:

• Justice and human rights : Gender equality and equity are issues of justice and human rights. All people, regardless of gender, deserve equal rights, opportunities and fair treatment. Denying these rights to someone based on their gender is a form of discrimination and violation of fundamental rights.
• Development and social progress : They are essential for development and social progress. When barriers are removed and equal opportunities are promoted, all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute fully to society. This in turn leads to stronger economic growth, greater social stability and a higher quality of life for all.
• Empowering people : They empower people by allowing them to have control over their own lives and make decisions that affect their well-being. By ensuring access to education, employment, leadership and other resources, it fosters people's autonomy and ability to influence their future. Become an empowered woman by following these keys .
• Reducing violence and discrimination : They are essential to combat gender-based violence and discrimination. By eliminating stereotypes and restrictive gender norms, we reduce gender-based violence and promote a safe and respectful environment for all. Discrimination is also combated and a culture of equality and mutual respect is promoted.
• Economic benefits : They have significant economic benefits. By providing all people with equal opportunities in employment and economic participation, we promote a diverse and talented workforce. Studies show that countries and organizations that promote gender equality tend to have stronger economic growth and higher productivity.
• Building inclusive and sustainable societies : They build inclusive and sustainable societies. By valuing and respecting gender diversity, a more just and cohesive society is fostered. Additionally, greater participation of different perspectives in decision-making is achieved, leading to more equitable and effective policies and solutions.

What can we do to achieve gender equality?

To achieve gender equality and equity, it is important that all people and communities work together and take concrete action. It is also necessary to recognize sexist phrases so that you can report discrimination or gender violence. Here we leave you a link so you can recognize a sexist .

Likewise, some of the actions we can do to achieve equality are:

• Promote education and awareness with a gender perspective that promotes equality between men and women.
• Reject sexist discrimination in all its forms and report cases of harassment and gender violence.
• Promote a culture of equality in all areas, including the workplace, politics and society in general.
• Work together to ensure equal pay between men and women.
• Expand the participation of women in decision-making and in leadership positions.
• Support policies and measures that promote gender equality and protection against sexist discrimination.
• Respect and value diverse gender identities and expressions.
• Include women and marginalized communities in decision-making processes and policy development.
• Organize and participate in demonstrations and campaigns to defend women's rights and promote gender equality.
• Share family and home care and responsibilities equally between men and women.

These articles may also interest you:

• What are gender biases and how do they affect men and women? Most common examples

• Black feminism: what is it and how does it differ from other currents of the genre?

• Anarchofeminism or anarchist feminism: what is it and who practices it?

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