#EmbraceEQUITY
On March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD), with this year’s theme being #EmbraceEquity.
Embracing equity is an important message, particularly close to our hearts, as we advocate for the diverse needs of the NF community.
Though the words ‘equity’ and ‘equality’ are often used interchangeably, they are inherently different concepts, and equality can often be exclusionary, rather than inclusive.
Equality aims to make things fair; however, it does not consider that 'fairness' really only works when we start from a level playing field.
There are many circumstances that can make life inequitable and for many, a life with Neurofibromatosis (NF) presents more obstacles than the average person will ever face.
Living with a chronic condition, like NF, can impact a person’s physical and mental health, family, education, employment and relationships.
Equity-based solutions consider the diverse lived experiences of individuals and communities, adapting services and policies according to these differences.
Equality is giving everyone a shoe. Equity is giving everyone a shoe that fits.
At the Children’s Tumour Foundation, our vision is for a life without limitations for everyone living with Neurofibromatosis.
We are the leading charitable authority in Australia offering vital support services for people with NF, ensuring everyone receives the knowledge, connections and support needed at every stage of their journey.
Our services are free, personalised, and accessible, giving everyone impacted by this devastating condition the same opportunities for intervention and support. But we meet them where they are at, which is different for everyone, and support them as needed through every stage of life. This is how we embrace equity everyday.
We know that the impact of NF can also reach well beyond the person living with it, which is why our community includes everyone living with NF in Australia (diagnosed and/or undiagnosed) along with their family, carers and friends.
NF doesn’t discriminate, it can affect everyone differently and there is no way to predict how mildly or severely someone will be affected, even within the same family.
A big part of our role is advocating for change to ensure the voices of our community are heard. We engage with local, state and federal government to advance the needs of those living with NF, ensuring more is invested into research and interventions that improve people’s lives right now.
“International Women’s Day is about celebrating the women that opened the doors that I walk through today. It is also about opening new doors and holding them open for the women who will come after me.”
Janu
NF Ambassador
On International Women's Day (IWD), and on every other day, let’s work towards true inclusion and #EmbraceEquity!
Learn more about Equity versus Equality here