The Even Charter outlines principles and guidelines for achieving equity via equal naming. It rejects outdated, colour-based labels such as "black" and "white," advocating for a more inclusive approach to describing individuals based on geographical identity and heritage.

The Even Charter advocates replacing colour-based labels like "black" and "white" with terms that accurately reflect geographical and cultural identities, such as "African," "European,", "Scottish", "Caribbean," or "Asian." For instances where skin tone information is required for lawful purposes, it supports the use of the Even Code or an internationally recognised skin tone guide to ensure fairness and consistency.

Additionally, the Charter addresses the use of terms like "political black" by some organisations. It encourages the adoption of labels that reflect the organisation’s values and causes, ensuring inclusivity for individuals who share their mission but may not identify with colour-based labels. This approach avoids unintentionally favouring individuals who align with the label but may not share the organisation’s goals or principles.

The Even Code is the operational heritage and identity framework of the Even Charter that includes up to five ethnic identities, detailed skin tone references, and eye colours, providing an inclusive alternative to outdated monitoring systems. Click here to see an Even Code example.

Accreditation under the Even Charter involves adherence to its principles and guidelines. Organisations can align their naming conventions with the charter's recommendations and participate in training and consultation provided by EVEN. This process ensures that their practices promote equity and inclusivity.

The Even Charter rejects colour-based labels because they are simplistic and often carry negative or positive biases rooted in historical and Western societal contexts. These labels perpetuate division and stereotypes. Replacing them with terms based on geographical and cultural identities fosters respect and equity.

"Equity Via Equal Naming" is the central principle of the Even Charter. It advocates for naming conventions that respect individuals' identities by using accurate and equitable terms rooted in their cultural and geographical heritage, rather than reductive colour-based labels.

Instead of using terms like "black people," the Even Charter recommends descriptors such as "African," "Nigerian," or "African-Caribbean," depending on the individual's heritage. Similarly, "white people" could be replaced with terms like "European," "British," or "German."

The Even Charter's global implementation involves collaboration with governments, cultural experts, advocacy groups, and communities. EVEN plans to promote awareness, provide training, and encourage the adoption of its principles through partnerships and pilot programs.

Yes, the Even Charter emphasises the importance of self-identification. Individuals should have the freedom to describe their ethnicity in their own terms rather than being confined to predefined categories.

The Even Challenge is a commitment made by individuals and organisations to uphold the principles of the Even Charter. By taking the challenge, participants pledge to promote equity via equal naming, reject colour-based labels, and adopt inclusive and respectful language in their practices and communications for at least 24 hours.