This framework expands on the traditional DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) by explicitly incorporating the concept of justice. Here's a deeper look at each component:

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1. Justice:

   • Definition: Justice refers to the fair and equitable treatment of all individuals, ensuring that systemic inequalities and discrimination are actively addressed and rectified.

   • Focus: It emphasizes the importance of removing barriers and creating systems that promote fairness and equal opportunities for everyone, particularly for marginalized and historically oppressed groups.

2. Equity:

   • Definition: Equity involves ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups.

   • Focus: Unlike equality, which treats everyone the same, equity recognizes that different people have different needs and circumstances, and thus, may require different resources and opportunities to achieve similar outcomes.

3. Diversity:

   • Definition: Diversity encompasses the presence of differences within a given setting, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.

   • Focus: It values the variety of unique perspectives and experiences that individuals bring to a group, enhancing creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making.

4. Inclusion:

   • Definition: Inclusion is the practice of creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate.

   • Focus: It involves the intentional, ongoing effort to ensure that diverse individuals are not only present but also fully engaged and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential.

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Importance of JEDI

• Holistic Approach: By including justice, the JEDI framework goes beyond the surface level of diversity and inclusion to address deeper systemic issues that perpetuate inequality.

• Systemic Change: It recognizes that achieving true equity and inclusion requires dismantling and rebuilding structures that have historically marginalized certain groups.

• Empowerment and Belonging: The focus on justice ensures that efforts are made to empower marginalized communities, giving them a sense of belonging and agency within organizations and society at large.

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Implementation of JEDI

Organizations aiming to implement JEDI principles may engage in several practices:

• Policy Review and Reform: Evaluating and revising policies to ensure they promote justice and equity.

• Education and Training: Providing training on unconscious bias, cultural competence, and systemic inequities.

• Inclusive Leadership: Developing leadership that is committed to JEDI values and practices.

• Community Engagement: Building partnerships with diverse communities to understand their needs and perspectives.

• Accountability Measures: Establish metrics and accountability systems to track progress and ensure transparency.

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By adopting the JEDI framework, organizations commit to a more comprehensive and impactful approach to creating equitable and inclusive environments.

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