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Writer's pictureEquitable Evaluation Initiative

EEF Expansion: Elements of the EEF

The Equitable Evaluation Framework™ is a set of

Principles, Orthodoxies, Mindsets, Tensions, and Sticking Points.

A graphic representation of the EEF. The Principles are shown as three guideposts in the foreground with bright red circles at the top, skinny posts to the ground, and roots connecting each of them underground. The Orthodoxies are ever-present as greyish purple vines. The Mindsets are a series of golden icons, representing shifts. The Tensions are represented with a tangled toggle in dark grey, showing multiple ideas upheld. The Sticking Points are represented as dark purple squiggles, showing the potential to get stuck.

A graphic representation of the EEF. The Principles are shown as three guideposts in the foreground with bright red circles at the top, skinny posts to the ground, and roots connecting each of them underground. The rest of the drawing is greyed out.

EEF Principles are foundational guideposts to advance equity and challenge singular type of truth, knowing, and evidence.

Callout boxes with text. First box: equity as means is working toward outcomes in ways that model dignity, justice, and love without re-creating harm in our structures, strategies, and working relationships. Second box: equity as ends is the absence of avoidable or remediable differences among groups of people, whether those groups are defined socially, economically, demographically, or geographically.


The Orthodoxies are deeply held beliefs that get in the way of advancing the Principles.


Graphic representations of the Mindsets, as a golden icon that looks like a flower or multiple, linked circles; the Tensions, as a tangled toggle in dark grey, showing multiple ideas upheld; and the Sticking Points, as a dark purple squiggle, showing the potential to get stuck.

The Mindsets, Tensions, and Sticking Points

provide support in traversing the Orthodoxies.


Generally, the Orthodoxies, and their related and highly nuanced attitudes, behaviors, beliefs, policies, and processes, surface themselves in response to new ideas related to advancing the Principles in practice. These moments surface, and often stall, the change process. The Mindsets, Tensions, and Sticking Points provide entry points for conversation and connection and opportunities for reflection, reflexion, and realignment.

Callout box with text: reflexion is examining oneself, heightening critical awareness of self in action, knowledge as social construction, and curiosity of what is "known and unknown"


* ChangeElemental, formerly MAG

*** D’Cruz, Heather & Gillingham, Philip & Melendez, Sebastian. (2005). “Reflexivity, its Meanings and Relevance for Social Work: A Critical Review of the Literature.” British Journal of Social Work.

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