Mr. Tech Discriminator Goes to Washington

Yesterday my colleague katie zhu and I ventured to the White House. Waiting in line for security, we were greeted by education non-profiteers. In the hallways of the executive office, we were welcomed by the secret service. When we entered the conference room, we were practically hugged by teachers and White House staffers.

When we moved further in, an asshole higher-up from a major tech company walked directly past Katie and introduced himself only to me.

As he moved on I turned to Katie, totally stunned. She was smiling.

“It happens all the time,” she said.

This made me feel simultaneously sad and ashamed. Sad for my colleague, and ashamed on behalf of this guy.

Later in the day I grew angry, knowing that he is in a position of power not only in the tech industry, but in this White House initiative to help traditionally disadvantaged populations achieve more — something he appears to be terribly under-qualified for and is likely unaware of that fact (he seemed to have all the answers each time he spoke, whereas other participants were humbly asking questions and engaging in generative conversation). Thankfully every other partner will more than make up for it.

In retrospect I wish I’d had the guts to say something, to help him gain a little self-awareness at the very least and to stand up for my friend. Next time I see him, I will.