We many times use these both terms interchangeably which leads to confusion. Yes equality and equity are related but they are very distinct from each other. Equality is something where everyone should get same things in order to enjoy healthy and happy lives. Whereas equity is something to understand and give individuals what they need to enjoy healthy and happy lives. So equality aims for justice and fairness but this is applicable to everyone if everyone starts from the same place and needs same things.

So to get more clearer about equality and equity, I’ve a very practical example, women demand that they should be treated same as men but that impossible because the genders are different and thus can’t be treated in same way. But if they demand for equity it would be quite genuine because they want the same rights as men have. Thus equity is desirable but not sameness. Indeed equality favours to quantity but equity to quality. I’ll definitely then prefer the latter one!!

The Pan-American Health Organization puts it, equity is the means and equality the outcome. True, isn’t it?? The advantage of understanding difference between these two will help us to recognize and respond to differences in health and wellbeing that are avoidable, unfair and changeable. This will bring more harmony in the world!!

Equity?? No it’s not equality!!