Historically Underrepresented Groups

Definition

These are groups of people who have traditionally been denied full participation in various aspects of society, such as education and employment, due to their race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other characteristics.

Analogy

Imagine a sports team where only players with certain colored jerseys were allowed to play. The players with different colored jerseys represent historically underrepresented groups - they've been on the bench for a long time and haven't had the same opportunities to participate in the game.

Related terms

Discrimination: Unfair treatment of individuals based on their membership in a particular group rather than their personal qualities or achievements.

Minority Rights: Legal protections that ensure individuals belonging to racial, ethnic, class, religious and sexual minorities can achieve equality.

Affirmative Action: A policy designed to redress past discrimination against women and minority groups through measures to improve their economic and educational opportunities.