Equalities policy guide: Equalities glossary

You may come across some new words when completing your equalities survey. Here is a definition of some of those words:

Equality

Equality refers to the right of every individual to equal treatment and opportunities, regardless of factors like
gender, race and social position. (Twinkl)

Achieving equality means that no-one has poorer life chances because of things like where they come from, what they believe, their sexual orientation and whether they have a disability.

Discrimination

Discrimination means treating someone unfairly or denying them choices or opportunities based on
who they are, their background or because they possess certain characteristics. For example, not letting a girl play football because of her gender.

Stereotype

A stereotype is a widely held belief about the behaviours, characteristics and roles of people of
different genders, backgrounds, orientations and abilities.

Transphobia, homophobia and biphobia

Transphobia, homophobia and biphobia are a range of negative feelings, attitudes and actions
towards transgender, gay or lesbian and bisexual people. These feelings, attitudes and actions can
result in LGBT people being discriminated against and experiencing violence and abuse.

Racism

Prejudices, individual actions and discriminatory behaviours where a person makes assumptions
about the abilities, motives and intents of other people based on race. This set of prejudices can lead
to cruel actions (e.g. racist hate speech) and unintentional actions towards a person or a group of
people.

Sexism

Sexism is prejudice or discrimination based on one’s sex or gender. Sexism can affect anyone, but it
primarily affects women and girls. It has been linked to gender roles and stereotypes and may
include the belief that one sex or gender is intrinsically superior to another.

Ableism

Ableism is prejudice or discrimination against people with physical or mental disabilities and/or
people who perceive themselves as being disabled.