According to the Center for the Elimination of Disproportionality and Disparity…

“Disproportionality is the overrepresentation of a particular race or cultural group in a program or system compared to their representation in the general population. Disparity is the condition of being unequal and refers to the difference in outcomes and conditions that exist among specific groups as compared to other groups due to unequal treatment or services. A health disparity is a particular type of health difference that is closely linked with social or economic disadvantage. Health disparities adversely affect people who have experienced greater social or economic obstacles to health based on their racial or ethnic group, religion, socioeconomic status, gender, mental health, physical disability or other characteristics historically linked to discrimination or exclusion.

Disproportionality and disparity in the treatment of children, families of color, and vulnerable populations in systems is embedded in the structure, in policy, in practice and in individual relationships between workers and their clients. It has its roots in historical conditions, and it arises from factors such as poverty, education levels, income, household composition and the lack of resources.”