DEI Resources in the Library

This guide is a starting point for discovering Saybrook Library resources on DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) topics. It is intended for research, self-discovery, and general learning. It includes books, videos, and databases from the library as well as selected web resources.

DEI is a conceptual framework that promotes the fair treatment and full participation of all people, especially in the workplace, including populations who have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination because of their background, identity, disability, etc. JEDI is a framework that includes justice. Another framework is DEIB which includes the pillars of DEI plus belonging. Refer to the terms defined below:

Belonging: The feeling of security and support people feel when there is a sense of acceptance, inclusion and recognition within a group or community. In an employment context, it is when an individual can bring their authentic self to work. Creating genuine feelings of belonging for all is a critical factor in improving employee engagement and performance. It is the opposite of ‘othering’.

Diversity: The condition of being different or having differences. Differences among people with respect to age, class, ethnicity, gender, health, physical and mental ability, race, sexual orientation, religion, physical size, education level, job and function, personality traits, and other human differences. Some describe organizational diversity as social heterogeneity.

Equity: The process of being fair to all individuals and groups, by addressing present and historical inequality in order to work towards equality in outcomes. Equity may involve the use of temporary special measures to compensate for the historical and systemic bias and discrimination faced by marginalized groups. Systems, institutions, policies and programming may be described as equitable or inequitable depending on their approach to addressing inequality. Generally speaking, equity is a means to the goal of equality.

Inclusion: Inclusion is a dynamic state of feeling, belonging and operating in which diversity is valued and managed to create a fair, results-based institution. An inclusive workplace culture and environment fosters equitable opportunities to resources and opportunities for all staff and personnel. It also enables staff and personnel to feel that diversity is valued and managed to create a fair workplace where they feel safe, motivated and respected.

Justice: While there is no consensus on the meaning and scope of the term, social justice is commonly associated with the creation of a just society, with the underlying assumption that justice implies human welfare through equal rights and share of benefits, fair treatment, recognition of cultural differences, and equitable access to resources and opportunities.

Source: UNICEF DEI Glossary