Diversity and Inclusion Through Leadership During Challenging Times (original) (raw)

Computing in Science and Engineering, 2020

Abstract

& BY SOME MEASURES, significant progress has been made in diversifying computing in science and engineering (CSE). The first Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing conference brought together 500 technical women in 1994, while the 2020 conference is expecting 30 000 attendees. Diversity organizations in CSE exist in a variety of diversity dimensions such as gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and technical areas such as computing, math, and engineering. For example, we have organizations focused on women in mathematics, Blacks in engineering, LGBT in math, and Hispanics in computing, as well as many other combinations. The growth of these organizations represents important progress and maturity toward diversifying. This progress was accomplished by a focus on the “D” in diversity and inclusion. That is, a focus on the underrepresented by providing important tools, community, and resources; or “fixing the minorities.” Yet, the data show considerable gaps still remain between the available talent and actual participation by these groups, as well as higher dropout rates for underrepresented groups. Further progress calls for new approaches to diversity and inclusion. The maturity of the “D” suggests addressing inclusion, or the “I” side. This requires not just a focus on marginalized people, but also efforts to transform the broader communities to places where all people are welcome, productive, and thriving; environments where inclusion is the norm, i.e., normal practice. Recent events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black LivesMattermovement, highlight longstanding systemic issues related to racial and ethnic disparities. This spotlight created a global focus on diversity and a great deal action including protests, new or renewed commitment to diversity, and interest in ways to create change. The momentum generated begs for action. This article describes ways to harness themomentum. Digital Object Identifier 10.1109/MCSE.2020.3020445

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