An equity approach, on the other hand, might be surveying each potential reader about the barriers and needs associated with reading this text. It could be that this results in purchasing and sending glasses to everyone with the appropriate prescriptions, or, the author could discover that the more pressing need for reading accessibility is actually better internet access or assistive technologies. For justice to be achieved systemic shifts would be so comprehensive that all materials would be designed with every type of reader in mind such that no special surveying/assistance is needed. This is an ambitious but important goal for any of us in leadership/power positions.
Connection: This discussion of equity resonated with the current material presented in my 5351 course. More specifically, I would like to draw ties to “The African-Centered Worldview: Toward a Paradigm for Social Work” written by Mekada J. Graham for the Journal of Black Studies. The article highlights the critical failures of social work theory in that it is foundationally ethnocentric. More specifically, social work theory is Eurocentric as its knowledge base is formed by the systems that see an overrepresentation of Black clients. Simply put, practitioners of social work have historically applied ethnocentric theory and practice to their aid of all individuals and groups.
This being said, a line can be drawn here between equity v. equality and Afrocentric ideals v. Eurocentric ideals. Equality would seem to prescribe traditional social work theory to all, providing aid and care in a manner that is similar for each individual. However, an equity approach is analogous to the Afrocentric approach, as diverse groups and varied individuals require tailored social work that does not look the same for all. This can be further proven by examining the outcomes of a universally prescribed social work theory. Graham's article states that Black individuals are overrepresented in social work, meaning that they are most commonly in stages of disparity and seeking out aid. They are also underrepresented in preventative aid, meaning that the overrepresentation and magnified need could be alleviated if an equity approach, not an equality approach, is taken systematically. The equity approach is connected to the application of an Afrocentric approach for these reasons.