The common definition of parity is the state or condition of being equal in terms of numbers and proportions. For example, a gender parity would be the balanced (in terms of numbers/proportions/ratio) representation of all gender identities within a group or organization – most ideally in leadership. Though some folks may use the word to also mean equality of power or influence, that’s technically not correct. Parity, no matter what context it’s used in, is a descriptive word only; it’s not in relation to value or policy.

But now, here’s the math-world definition(s) of parity that is oh-so-close to meaning the same thing yet… nope… it’s different enough that I’d like us to take this math-world definition(s) into consideration when we’re working on something IRL where reaching parity is the goal to be achieved.

This definitive difference is a bit of an eye-opener, truth be told. The overall takeaway with either of the math definitions clearly states that parity is a binary descriptor, an either/or. Since I don’t ascribe to the archaic definition of gender being binary, then the phrase gender parity is a bit of a head scratch, no?

So goes what I’m asking you to consider: In addition to a balance in terms of proportions or ratio, howz about a balance of the attributes of negative / positive & an equivalence of left / right? Y’all get to decide the most fitting way to define the words negative, positive, left, and right, based on the conditions and structure you are doing your parity work within.

I’ll admit, sometimes it’s like being a part of a dance, kind of like the hokey-pokey, with a barker calling out do this, then that, now this — and that’s what it’s all about.

I still go with the overall goal being to bring everyone together so that there’s a representative blend into one cohesive unit. Though your quest for parity may create a flicker of standing-out at first, as the mixing continues the hope is that each new addition will blend in with its surroundings and attain a balance of that negative / positive, left / right.