Equality
Also known as parity
The need to be regarded as of equal worth and standing: that no one counts for more or less, and that power and voice are shared.
When met or unmet
When met
- Treated as an equal alongside others
- Voice and power shared
- Status not used to decide who matters
When unmet
- Double standards
- Being talked down to
- Power held by a few
Feelings
Faux feelings that point here
Common expressions
Why do they get special treatment? I just want a level playing field My voice counts as much as yours
Strategies
- Making sure every voice in the room is asked for and heard
- Speaking up when someone is talked down to
- Sharing decisions and power rather than holding them
- Examining your own biases and privileges
Recognition questions
- → Am I treated as an equal here?
- → Does my voice carry the same weight as others’?
- → Are the same rules applied to everyone?
Somatic markers
When met
- Sense of rightness and balance
- Trust in systems and relationships
- Relaxation about outcomes
When unmet
- Burning sense of injustice
- Frustration and resentment
- Desire to fight or withdraw
Shadow side
- Flattening real differences in experience or skill
- Demanding identical treatment when equity requires difference
- Using claims of equality to avoid personal responsibility
Cultural considerations
Cultures differ in how much hierarchy they expect and accept. Some emphasise equal standing for everyone; others accept differences in standing by age, role or experience.