Equality means that all people should have equal rights and equal opportunities. Related to equality is equity, which is about providing the means - often varied - for people to move towards equal and just outcomes.
Diversity means including and involving people from diverse backgrounds.
Inclusivity means making everyone feel welcome and valued.
The Equality Act 2010: the following are legally protected characteristics:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Discrimination on the grounds of any of these characteristics is illegal.
Intersectionality
Protected characteristics are not mutually exclusive. Many people have more than one protected characteristic.