Which term refers to the effort to include more minorities in fire departments across the nation?

The term that refers to the effort to include more minorities in fire departments across the nation is diversity. Diversity encompasses a broad range of differences among people, particularly in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, age, and other attributes. In the context of fire departments, it emphasizes the goal of creating a workforce that reflects the community it serves, which enhances service delivery and overall effectiveness.

While equity, inclusion, and representation are also important concepts, they serve specific roles within the broader context of diversity. Equity relates to fairness in processes and opportunities, ensuring that individuals have access to the same resources and support based on their needs. Inclusion refers to the practices that create environments where diverse individuals feel welcomed and valued. Representation focuses on the presence of various groups within a specific setting.

In summary, diversity specifically addresses the initiative to increase minority presence in fire departments, making it the most suitable choice for the question asked.