Guiding Definitions

Diversity

Diversity refers to the richness of human differences: socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, language, nationality, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, geography, disability, age, and individual aspects such as personality, communication and learning styles, and life experiences (cognitive diversity). 
SOURCE: AAMC 2014 

Equity

Equity is the guarantee of fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all students, faculty, and staff, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. The principle of equity acknowledges that there are historically underserved and underrepresented populations and that fairness regarding these unbalanced conditions is needed to assist equality in the provision of effective opportunities to all groups.  
SOURCE: UC Berkeley Center for Equity, Inclusion and Diversity, “Glossary of Terms” (page 34 in 2009 Strategic Plan). 
 

Inclusion

Inclusion refers to active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity. Inclusion is achieved by creating climate and culture within the institution that fosters belonging, respect, and value for all and encourages engagement and connection throughout the institution and community 
SOURCE: AAMC 2014 

Underrepresented Minority (URM)

Someone whose racial or ethnic makeup is categorized as Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or Two or more Races.
Source: Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education

Underrepresented in Medicine (UIM)

"Underrepresented in medicine means those racial and ethnic populations that are underrepresented in the medical profession relative to their numbers in the general population.“
SOURCE: AAMC 2004