9781422281321

Defining “Equal Opportunity” The idea of “equal opportunities” is closely linked to other important values about how life should be lived—such as jus- tice and tolerance. It involves sensitive issues, including gen- der, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and age. It affects all levels of society, from government lawmakers to chil- dren at school. Equal opportunities can mean different things, based on who is involved and where they are. But whoever—and wher- ever—they are, most people agree that equal opportunities means giving people civil rights , or equal rights in employment and education as well as a fair chance to make the best of their lives regardless of characteristics like gender, race, age, disabil- ity, or religion. Accepting peoples’ sexual orientation (whether they are gay, straight, or bisexual), marital status (single, married, divorced, or widowed), and family status (having children or not) is also included in definitions of equal opportunities. Do We Have Equal Opportunities? Most people think equal opportunities are important, but equality is seldom achieved—at least, not completely. Law makers and campaigners do not all agree on how equal rights should be introduced or enforced. Also, many individuals still benefit from unequal opportunities in business or in institu- tions such as the courts and armed forces, where being of a cer- tain race, gender, or sexual orientation may provide greater influence and chances to advance. Often, those are the people with the most power to create change, but until they are will-

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What Are Equal Opportunities?