Leveling the Playing Field

Trio Day Reception Conversation:

Monica Conlan works for Upward Bound. She moved here several years ago from Michigan. When asked how trio programs contribute to diversity, Monica responded that she believes everyone should have a chance to be educated and have access to education. Monica believes not everyone does and trio programs are just one way of many to ensure people from under represented groups have a chance at a good education. I asked Monica if she thought trio programs evened the playing field. She was silent for a few beats and we both started laughing and shaking our heads no.

This concept of a “playing field” is not new. Where did that come from? One source says that the first record of it being said with regards to a situation aside from sports came from a 1977 article from the Tyrone Daily Herald (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/228650.html)

“Our philosophy is that we have no problem competing with the mutual savings banks of they start from the level playing field.” (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/228650.html)

This phrase, quoted by John Bolger, a lobbyist for the US Bankers Association, goes back even farther (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/228650.html). According to the phrases.org website, a former US secret service member, George Burnham, called it “on the level” in 1872. It meant “meeting a man with honorable intentions” (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/228650.html).

Today, in this context, Monica and I were using the term in reference to the vast economic and social layers in American society that allow for advancement and the ability to achieve the “American Dream”.  To continue the metaphor, we are all playing a game, running the same race. But, some people start way ahead in the race. Some people aren’t even allowed to enter the race. Others have to prove they have a ticket to the race. Often, the folks that are behind are under-represented groups.

Education may not quite level the field or rules, but it does give access. If more people have access, the diversity of those playing the game increases.