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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Nobles: DEI Glossary

A guide to resources for diversity, equity and inclusion at Nobles, including BIPOC student support, opportunities and events

A Glossary of Working Language for Socially-Conscious Conversation

It is important to use shared language as Nobles journeys toward greater understanding and action in building a more inclusive, diverse and equitable community. The landscape of language constantly evolves and our understanding of words shift over time, influenced by culture and personal backgrounds and experiences.

Keeping in mind our shared values of respect for self, respect for others and honesty, Nobles' diversity, equity and inclusion department, along with some faculty from the English and history departments, have created this working glossary in partnership with other schools and universities. These key words and phrases (and their definitions) are centered in social justice and serve as starting points for discussions. We do not claim them to be perfect.

This glossary is a work in progress that relies on community insights and input. Please feel free to reach out to the DEI department to discuss and/or to add. Thank you for the work you do and for your support. 

 

From the Nobles DEI mission statement:

Diversity: 

  • We define diversity as the representation of all our varied identities and differences collectively and as individuals. Our definition also includes diversity of thought: ideas, perspectives and values. We recognize that individuals embody multiple intersecting identities. 
  • Or simply put: Who is in the room? Who is represented? Which categories are used to distinguish groups of people? 

Equity: 

  • We define equity as ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement, while simultaneously working to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups by examining the structures and foundations of a place, institution or a country.
  • Who is trying to get into “the room” but cannot? What conditions have been created to maintain the power of certain groups? 

Identities:  

  • While diversity is often used to reference race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, we embrace a broader definition that includes sexual orientation, socio-economic status, language, culture, religious commitments, age, (dis)ability status, education, family composition, and thinking and communication styles. 
  • Who are you? Who are the people who surround you? And what impact does this have on your evolving identity and on your own perception of others?

Inclusion: 

  • We believe inclusion is the act of creating environments where any individual or group can be and feel safe, welcomed, respected and supported. Efforts at inclusion include policies and actions that promote equal access to services and resources, as well as those that enable a person to fully participate in the decisions that affect their lives.
  • Simply put:  Do I see myself reflected in this community? 

DEI Glossary Categories

The following definitions have been taken from the various websites that we have cited as additional sources. Please use the additional resources to look up more words and/or clarify the following words we have defined. 

Explore Other Glossaries

For more glossaries of terms related to DEI and social justice, please refer to the following schools (high schools, colleges and universities). There are many other glossaries you can choose from, but these have helped guide our own journeys.