Diversity, equity and inclusion are frequently discussed together, with good reason. But what about “belonging”?

If diversity refers to who is in the mix, equity refers to structural barriers that exist and inclusion refers to how those in the mix are being engaged, then belonging refers to the broad experience of those in the mix feeling respected and valued, explained Amber Hikes, chief equity and inclusion officer at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), during a panel discussion Wednesday presented as part of the American Association of Law Schools (AALS) 2022 Annual Meeting.