If you’ve been paying attention to the conversations happening in workplaces, schools, and in the media, you’ve probably seen the letters DEI—short for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It’s a term that is frequently discussed, but what does it actually mean?
As a therapist, I see every day how deeply people are impacted by whether or not they feel like they belong—at work, in relationships, and in their communities. Let’s take a moment to talk about what DEI really means, not from a corporate or political lens, but from a human one.
Diversity: Who’s at the Table?
Diversity is about difference. It’s about having a mix of people with different races, cultures, genders, ages, body types, sexualities, faiths, abilities, backgrounds, and life experiences. In a diverse space, we’re not all the same, and that’s a good thing! Our differences bring richness and perspective. But diversity alone isn’t enough. Just being “at the table” doesn’t mean you feel welcome or valued.
Equity: Are We All Starting from the Same Place?
Equity asks: Are the systems around us fair? Are we giving people what they actually need to thrive? Equality would be giving everyone the same pair of shoes. Equity is making sure the shoes actually fit. In therapy, I don’t give every client the same tools—I tailor support to each person’s needs, strengths, and story. That’s what equity looks like in real life: recognizing that people need different resources, opportunities, or support to have a fair chance.
Inclusion: Feeling Like We Belong
Inclusion is where the magic happens. It’s about creating spaces where people feel safe, respected, and like they truly belong. Not just tolerated, but valued. Not just included in name, but seen, heard, and appreciated. Inclusion is when you don’t have to hide parts of who you are to be accepted. It’s when people around you ask, “What do you need to feel safe here?” and their curiosity is genuine.
Why DEI Benefits Everyone
A common myth is that DEI only helps people from marginalized or underrepresented groups. The truth is, when we build spaces that are truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive, everyone Benefits. Think about the last time you felt like you didn’t have to perform to fit in. The last time someone really saw you. That feeling of safety and connection? That’s what DEI creates when it’s done right. In workplaces, DEI leads to better communication, more innovation, and stronger teams. In schools and communities, it helps people feel safer and more connected. In therapy, it creates room for healing across lines of difference.
DEI Is About Empathy
At its core, DEI isn’t just a program or policy—it’s a commitment to care for one another more fully. To listen better, to learn, and to notice who’s missing and who’s hurting. It’s about being willing to ask hard questions and stay curious. Whether you’re a client, a parent, a leader, or a neighbor, DEI isn’t something you have to know. It starts with simple questions: Who feels left out in this space? What would make this feel more welcoming? How can I show up differently?
We all want to feel safe, respected, and like we belong. DEI is simply one way of making that possible—for everyone.
