# A more inclusive FAC --- ## (Some of) our goals - Create a space where everyone's voice is heard - Make the tech industry more diverse Note: We're going to talk about where we think we've missed these goals, and how we plan to correct this going forward. --- We recognise that the space we have provided for learning has not been safe and supportive for everyone. Note: We want to acknowledge that a number of people feel like their voice isn't heard, that there isn't as much space for them, and that their education has suffered because of this. --- We cannot address marginalisation in tech by recreating that same pattern of under-representation. Note: You are all on the course because you belong here. However it was careless of us to create a male-majority cohort without considering how that might affect group dynamics. We recognised this had the potential to reflect some of the wider cultural problems in the industry within the cohort, but we failed to do enough to work against it. --- ## Where we failed you --- The guidance we gave you at the beginning was insufficient. > "Prioritise collaborative over individual learning" This is not specific or actionable, and is totally open to different interpretations. Note: We should absolutely have done more to provide resources and guidance on our foundational beliefs as an organistion, how to be a good ally to those who are marginalised in tech (and the wider world) and how to recognise when you might be (maybe unconsciously) contributing to a less-than-ideal learning environment. --- We failed to act when we saw difficulties emerge. A Code of Conduct isn't enough. Note: We have a Code of Conduct for extremely egregious behaviour, but we need clearly defined actions to take when less serious (but no less important) problems occur. --- It's not enough for us to _say_ we want a more diverse tech industry if we're not doing any of the hard work to make that happen. --- ## Growing together --- Each cohort builds upon those before it. We want to work with you to create more positive experiences for those who come after. Note: It may not feel like it when you're on the course (especially a remote one that is relatively cut off from the rest of the community), but every cohort has had some influence on the way the course is run. We want to emphasise that FAC is a cooperative organisation that should be shaped by members who want to help us with our mission—_especially_ the most recent cohort. --- While we still want each cohort to shape their own experiences we believe some things, like creating an inclusive learning environment, are too important and difficult to be your responsibility. Note: Leaving the cohort to define these things also inevitably shifts difficult emotional labour onto the most marginalised members, who have to advocate for themselves. --- ## Next steps - [x] Today: Acknowledging where we've fallen short - [ ] Monday: Presenting new resources - [ ] Monday: Discussion in smaller groups (project teams) --- We have been working on some resources to help members of each cohort understand how to be a good ally to marginalised people. This will ideally be presented at the beginning of cohorts in future, but we'd like to go through it with you before you begin the group project part of the course. --- We would also like to discuss some of these themes in smaller groups. Since you're already in groups of four we'll hold those discussions within project teams. Note: We do not want to debate our fundamental organisational principles, but we would like to clarify any confusion that may arise, and get your feedback. --- ## Finally We want to apologise to anyone who feels like they haven't had enough space. We regret that we haven't addressed this sooner, and hope that you still trust us to try and make FAC a more inclusive place. Note: We don't want to have a whole group discussion right now. Please take a 10 minute break to process and absorb, then we'll meet back here to move on to SGC.