On Discrimination
This is not a lengthy op-ed. I just want to briefly raise your self awareness.
Inequality is Everywhere
It seems anything “Tech” related makes the news, and I’m grateful that important issues like discrimination are increasingly being included in the mix.
But let’s be careful not to do society a disservice by focusing only on gender discrimination only in Tech. Let’s talk about gender discrimination in every industry, like healthcare. While we’re at it, let’s also not forget for a moment the other ways in which we discriminate, be it race, religion, socioeconomic status, or attractiveness.
Look Internally First
We like to point out others who are discriminating, and talk about how bad they are, because it makes us feel better. But what are we missing out on by exclusively choosing this safe place of external observation? How often do we have the vulnerability to look at ourselves? If you’ve seen the news recently, it seems like most people save this until after they’re caught.
Even the least biased among us is subject to external influence. If you can say you’ve never been discriminating, not even a little, you’re lying. Yes, you. I try to never get so comfortable with myself that I think I’m above the fold. I think of my tolerance/acceptance as my health. It is not static. In fact, it can decline. If you’ve been attuned to the news recently, this should be evident. No, my attitude of tolerance and acceptance towards others should be maintained and improved through deliberate action.
Then Look Externally
Once you’ve really taken stock of yourself, now you can look around you. If you see discrimination in your workplace, do something about it. If you’ve been discriminated against, tell someone.
Now Act
Only by intentionally raising your own self-awareness will you be able to become more aware of your surroundings. Only by becoming more aware of your surroundings can you do anything about them. And it’s the doing that is of the utmost importance.
P.S. I hope you do not see this post as belittling the conversation around gender discrimination in Tech. On the contrary, my aim is to elevate that conversation and all of the other conversations that we need to be having, and to hopefully inspire you to examine your own behavior in the way that I examine my own. We grow through self reflection.
