Letter to the editor: WCCC's 'equity' isn't 'equality'

Isn’t this special.

Westmoreland County Community College has created a “Center for Equity, Inclusion and Belonging,” according to a glowing newspaper report (“Westmoreland County Community College opens Center for Equity, Inclusion, Belonging,” Jan. 27, TribLIVE).

Lots to unpack here, but let’s pick one nit: equity.

“Equity” is not “equality.”

Equality is the state of being equal. Everyone has freedom.

Equity is altogether different, particularly under its current corrupt application. Forget equal access to opportunity and protection before the law. “Equity” in practice has become the equalization of stature and wealth in accordance with subjective assessments.

That means those in power can take what you have and give it so someone who hasn’t earned it. Sort of like the college loan debt forgiveness proposal that slithered onto the political stage just before the last election. Not buying that one either.

Summing up: Equality provides a foundation for those motivated to succeed. Equity, as currently used, potentially condemns everyone to mediocrity. Some would prefer to call it equal outcomes. WCCC is on the wrong path in promoting “equity” as a solution for perceived grievances in society.

Ultimately, the county commissioners are responsible for the operation of the school. They choose a board to run it and can change the makeup of that board at will.

George Beidler

Hempfield