Have you ever been rejected or excluded? Maybe not invited to something in a group that you thought you belonged to, or wanted to belong to? Maybe been made fun of, not always just behind your back? Haven’t we all been in that position at least a few times in our lives?
Fort Vancouver Library District is now grappling with the politicization of a previously non-political word—“Equity.”
But now Trump’s Republicans are trying to make such terms dirty words. Isn’t it funny how they use things like we’re against “DEI” or “Wokeness,” or “Antifa?”
Think for a minute about what these terms mean. DEI stands for diversity, equity and inclusion. Don’t we all want to be treated fairly and equally and be included and made to feel welcome? That’s what “Equity” means. Wokeness just means that you understand that concept. Don’t we all value the people in our lives who are understanding and tolerant?
Trump has put Antifa on the list of terrorist organizations. But Antifa stands for “Anti-Fascist.” Who would have a problem with that word other than a Fascist?
What the abbreviations mask is what Trump and his followers are really against: equal, humane acceptance of ALL people, not just the ones like them. Our libraries play an essential community role in welcoming us all, not just the privileged few. Keep the word “Equity” in the library plan. I want our libraries to welcome everyone.
Carrie Parks
Vancouver
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