In this episode of the Inclusive Excellence Podcast, co-hosts Erin Sember-Chase and Toral Patel go back to the basics – breaking down the foundational concepts of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and exploring why understanding these terms matters to everyone, everywhere. 

Today, DEI is at the forefront of countless conversations, policies and debates. Yet some of the public discourse and media representation is clouded by misunderstandings and inaccurate definitions. Recognizing this, the hosts aim to cut through the noise and provide clarity – starting with a shared understanding of what these terms actually mean. 

“It’s important to make sure that we all feel as informed as possible when we are trying to decide where we stand on certain issues or how we feel about different things,” Sember-Chase said. “Because this is our job, I think we have a responsibility to ourselves and to our listeners to bring a little clarity and accuracy to the conversation. It’s less about trying to shape opinion and more about trying to give our audience the information they need to form their own.” 

Throughout the episode, Sember-Chase and Patel unpack the individual meanings of diversity, equity and inclusion, offering real-world examples of how each concept plays a role in our workplaces, communities and everyday lives. As colleagues in the Department of Inclusion & Belonging, they bring both professional insight and personal experience to the conversation.

“We often use these three terms in tandem,” Patel explained. “Nationally and internationally, diversity, equity and inclusion are getting combined into one acronym. And yet, each one of those letters is a completely different concept. It’s important to break them apart because each one is unique.”

Patel and Sember-Chase emphasize the importance of prioritizing DEI not just in the workplace, but across all areas of our communities—from education and healthcare to government and public life.

“You end up having a stronger team. You have more innovation and more creativity because all of those voices, perspectives and experiences are able to be shared,” Patel added.

The hosts also take a deeper look at anti-DEI sentiment seen in the media and encourage listeners to think critically about what that opposition really means. 

“When we hear those three terms, they’re something I think we need to name,” said Sember-Chase. “We’re hearing about people being against DEI. However, are they actually saying that they’re against having equity? Are they actually against people having what they need? Are they actually against everybody feeling a sense of inclusion? I think what people might actually be against are the approaches that could be taken to achieve DEI. And so that's different. Let's talk about that.”

Both Sember-Chase and Patel plan to continue to explore how diversity, equity and inclusion show up in real-world settings and why they are essential to shaping our future. 

“We hope this discussion has helped clarify what these terms truly mean, and why they matter for all of us—now and in the future,” Patel said. “Whether it's understanding the differences between equity and equality, or recognizing that belonging goes beyond simply being included, we've only just begun to scratch the surface. These conversations are ongoing, and Erin and I will continue to have them. We've seen this throughout our season—DEI touches so many aspects of our lives.” 

Be sure to catch this conversation and the season finale airing on April 25, featuring a special guest. To listen to the full episode, tune in to Episode 96: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – More Than Just an Acronym.