How do we talk about the issues that matter?

 How do we talk about the issues that matter? 

I used to work for an organization that placed a very high level of importance on diversity, equity, and inclusion. One of the most helpful things I learned while employed there was the importance of vocabulary and having a common understanding when discussing topics such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, etc. 

Here's a quiz: what's the difference between nationality, race, and ethnicity? 

You might use some of these words interchangeably or not at all. 

Here's the answer: 

Race: the definition of race is tricky, and not truly agreed upon. We can say that it's based on where your ancestors originated or based on the color of your skin.  

Nationality: nationality is what is on your theoretical passport, think about where you were born or where you have citizenship. 

Ethnicity: more so than anything else ethnicity is a cultural identity, your ethnicity can overlap with your race, language, religion, etc. Ethnicity is often tied back to the culture of where your family originated. One might identify with being Ethiopian, Scottish, Jewish, Persian, etc

Having words such as these have a set definition before beginning a discussion is vital to make sure that there are no misunderstandings and everyone begins from the same place.  I think oftentimes talking about issues of identity can create a lot of big emotions in people, and while these emotions are normal we can have a very hard time explaining them. This is another reason why vocabulary is so vital when discussing issues that matter.