It feels like just yesterday we were all onboard and riding the DE&I wave. Companies were making bold commitments, and we were all optimistic about a more inclusive tech industry. Fast forward to now, and it seems like that initial optimism is starting to fizzle out. So, what's going on? Have companies shifted their focus away from diverse hiring due to the economic climate and other priorities?
This week, the Tech Talent Charter (TTC) made an announcement that felt like a gut punch to many of us in the DE&I space. They're closing their doors. If you haven't seen it yet, check out their statement here. This news, coupled with the dissolution of another massive women in tech community, Women Who Code, in April has sparked a lot of conversations and concerns about the future of DE&I initiatives in the tech industry. Let's dive into what might be causing this shift and what it means for us.
Let's face it: when the economy takes a hit, companies often tighten their belts. Unfortunately, DE&I initiatives are still often seen as expendable rather than essential. It's a shortsighted view, but it's a reality we're grappling with. When budgets are slashed, programmes aimed at fostering diversity are the first to end up on the chopping block.
Companies may argue that they need to focus on immediate survival and profitability. But here's the thing: diversity isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a must-have. Diverse teams bring a wealth of perspectives, drive innovation, and can even improve a company's bottom line. Cutting DE&I efforts might save money in the short term, but it's a costly mistake in the long run.
Another factor at play could be what some are calling "DE&I fatigue." After a couple of years of intense focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, there's a sense that some companies might feel they've done enough. They've ticked the boxes, released the statements, and maybe even hired a Chief Diversity Officer. But DE&I isn't a one-time project; it's a continuous journey.
It's crucial to recognize that real change takes time. One-off initiatives or temporary boosts in diverse hiring won't cut it. Sustained effort and commitment are key. Companies need to embed DE&I into their culture, making it an integral part of their operations, rather than a side project that gets attention only when it's convenient.
Despite the challenges, it's important to remember why we started pushing for DE&I in the first place. The tech industry has a long way to go. Women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+, those of us with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups still face significant barriers. The work is far from over, and if anything, the current economic climate should be a call to action, not a reason to retreat.
So, where do we go from here? I believe we have a responsibility to keep the momentum going. Here are a few ways we can all contribute:
Advocate for DE&I: Whether you're in a leadership position or just starting out, use your voice to advocate for diversity. Highlight the benefits of diverse teams and remind decision-makers why DE&I matters.
Support DE&I programmes: If your company has DE&I initiatives, get involved. Offer your time, resources, or expertise to help these programmes succeed.
Hold companies accountable: When companies make DE&I commitments, hold them to their word. Transparency and accountability are crucial for making lasting change.
Champion inclusive hiring practices: Encourage your company to adopt inclusive hiring practices. This means not just looking at who gets hired, but also how they're recruited, interviewed, and supported once they're on board.
Stay informed and connected: Keep up with DE&I trends and challenges. Connect with others in the space to share ideas, support each other, and stay motivated.
DE&I might be facing some challenges, but it's far from over. We need to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. The recent closure of the Tech Talent Charter is a reminder that the work we do is more important than ever. Let's stay committed, stay vocal, and keep striving for a more inclusive tech industry. Together, we can make a difference.