The tech industry is undergoing a remarkable shift towards recognizing the importance of a diversified and inclusive workforce. While there have been notable strides and a number of shattered barriers, the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in tech remains an area that requires significant attention. Before we get into initiatives that are driving change, let’s define what representation really is and why it matters.
What is Representation?
In today’s increasingly interconnected and globalized world, representation is a crucial concept; it encompasses the idea of ensuring diverse individuals and communities are adequately included, portrayed, and empowered in various aspects of society. In the context of the tech industry, representation refers to the fair and accurate depiction, participation, and inclusion of individuals from all backgrounds. This includes gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and other underrepresented groups. Let’s look at some of the reasons why representation matters:
Tackling bias and discrimination: when a company promotes diversity and inclusion, it challenges unconscious biases and fosters a more safe and considerate environment for all. No industry is immune to bias, but adequate representation plays a vital role in addressing these systemic issues.
Cultivating an inclusive culture: when individuals feel seen, valued and included, it fosters a sense of belonging and boosts overall morale. In prioritizing inclusion, an industry attracts top talent from a wide range of backgrounds, reduces employee turnover, and promotes collaboration and cross-pollination. Most importantly, it builds trust between employees, companies, and consumers.
Fostering innovation: when a multitude of perspectives, experiences, and ideas are brought together, it fuels innovation and problem-solving skills. This leads companies to create more robust advancements that cater to a wider audience.
Why is it important to the tech industry?
Embracing and promoting representation is not only the right thing to do, but it can also encourage the tech industry to further innovate and benefit society. Let’s look at some of the responsibilities the tech industry carries and how representation can further advance industry growth:
Ethical responsibility: in its substantial role in shaping society, influencing decision making, and impacting individuals’ lives, the tech industry carries an ethical responsibility to ensure that its products and services are developed with social good in mind. Diverse workforce representation ensures that the values and needs of all communities are considered and respected throughout the tech ecosystem.
Economic empowerment: in providing equal opportunities for underrepresented groups, the tech industry opens doors for financial empowerment, social mobility, and reduced income inequality. Inclusive environments ensure that talented individuals from all backgrounds can access high-paying tech jobs, launch startups, and contribute to the growth of the industry.
Reflecting user diversity: in incorporating a diverse array of voices in the design, development, and decision-making processes, products and services can better serve tech’s multifaceted user base. From cultural backgrounds to unique preferences, it’s crucial that the industry relates to users from around the globe.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Tech
Now that we’ve touched on the critical role of representation, let’s look specifically at the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in tech, as well as the initiatives and organizations that are driving positive change in the industry.
Challenges facing LGBTQ+ tech employees
A history of industry oppression: according to the history of the LGBTQ+ community and tech, LGBTQ+ influence stretches back to the early days of computing. Historic tech figures such as Alan Turing and Lynn Conway were pioneers behind paramount advances in information technology and microchip design; however, they also faced discrimination and even legal persecution for their sexuality and gender identity. While this type of overt discrimination might seem like a thing of the past, historic anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments bleed forth into the tech community of today.
Underrepresentation: according to Lesbians Who Tech, LGBTQ+ underrepresentation is endemic in the tech sphere, causing a lack of connection for LGBTQ+ employees and scarce levels of social capital at work. This lack of visibility stifles the voice and contributions of the LGBTQ+ tech community, contributing to a cycle in which underrepresentation perpetuates itself; aspiring LGBTQ+ tech employees have less role models and examples of success within the industry.
Workplace bias and discrimination: according to a report from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC), 46% of LGBTQ+ employees are not open about their identities at work due to fear of discrimination. Often, preconceived notions or stereotypes may prevent LGBTQ+ folks from accessing equal opportunities or leadership positions. Another study reported that only 35% of LGBQ employees felt that they were represented by their company’s upper management.
Wage gap: a study by HRC found that LGBTQ+ workers in the US earn, on average, 10% less than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. This disparity in pay highlights how historic bias trickles into the modern day, and speaks to changes that need to be addressed going forward.
Opportunities for growth and change
Amidst the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the tech industry, there is a silver lining that shines brightly: a growing number of voices and organizations dedicated towards making a difference. Let’s take a look at those who have made a commitment towards reshaping the industry to include more LGBTQ+ empowerment:
Companies that foster inclusion: several players in the industry have taken steps to distinguish themselves as LGBTQ-friendly tech companies. These companies prioritize diverse representation, implement inclusive policies, and provide support through employee resource groups. Examples of LGBT-friendly tech companies include Microsoft, Apple, Google, Salesforce, IBM, and many more.
LGBTQ+ led entrepreneurship: many LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs are deciding to take matters into their own hands and cultivate a greater LGBTQ+ tech industry. By founding their own companies, folks create their own work culture that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community in tech, and sets an example for the broader industry.
Organizations that inspire change: various pro-LGBTQ+ tech organizations and events have popped up across the industry, working to empower, educate, and employ LGBTQ+ tech workers. The gap in representation in the industry has motivated change-makers to work tirelessly to combat anti-LGBTQ+ bias and increase visibility.
LGBTQ+ tech organizations making a difference
Lesbians Who Tech: a global community of LGBTQ+ professionals and allies in technology. They organize LGBTQ+ tech conferences, summits, and events that provide networking opportunities and promote visibility and representation within the industry.
TransTech Social Enterprises: an organization dedicated to empowering and employing transgender and gender non-conforming individuals in the tech industry. They offer instruction, mentorship programs, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurship support to create pathways for success.
Out in Tech: a non-profit that aims to unite and support LGBTQ+ professionals in the tech sector. They arrange events, educational programs, and career fairs to promote inclusivity and diversity.
Alliance of LGBTQ High Tech Employees (ALTHE): an alliance of LGBTQ+ professionals working in the tech industry advocating for inclusive policies, fighting against discrimination, and providing resources and support to LGBTQ+ employees.
StartOut: an organization that empowers and assists LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in the tech industry. They help folks acquire the resources and guidance they need to start and scale their businesses, with the mission to foster a more diverse startup ecosystem.
Human Rights Campaign Foundation: a foundation that focuses on workplace equality and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community in the US. Their Corporate Equality Index (CEI) helps rate and recognize companies’ inclusive policies and practices for LGBTQ+ employees.
LGBTQ Tech & Innovation Summit: an annual conference that brings together LGBTQ+ tech employees and allies from all sides of the industry. It functions as a platform for knowledge around LGBTQ+ tech jobs, a space for collaboration between employees, and a driver towards further LGBTQ+ inclusion in tech.
Pathways to further inclusion
Beyond mere numbers or quotas, aiming to create a truly inclusive environment is a step by step process. Let’s outline a few proactive strategies that tech companies can implement to promote inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community within their organization:
Establish an inclusive culture:
Develop and enforce anti-discrimination and harassment policies, and provide diversity and inclusion training for all employees.
Encourage employees to express their identities without fear of retribution.
Implement LGBTQ-friendly policies:
Offer comprehensive healthcare coverage that includes gender-affirming care.
Establish gender-neutral restrooms in offices.
Provide funding for employee resource groups dedicated to LGBTQ+ identity.
Foster LGBTQ-inclusive hiring practices:
Ensure that job descriptions and recruitment materials use inclusive language.
Proactively seek diverse candidates by partnering with LGBTQ-specific job boards or recruitment agencies.
Implement blind resume screening processes to reduce unconscious bias, and provide sensitivity training to hiring managers.
Create LGBTQ-inclusive products and marketing:
Feature diverse representations of relationships and identities within advertising campaigns and media.
Develop inclusive products and services and conduct user research to gather feedback from LGBTQ+ customers.
Support LGBTQ+ community initiatives:
Sponsor LGBTQ+ Pride events, donate to nonprofits that promote the health and safety of LGBTQ+ youth, and/or promote volunteer opportunities for employees.
LGBTQ+ representation isn’t just a nice-to-have in tech--it’s an absolute necessity. By including and celebrating the talents of the LGBTQ+ community, the tech industry has the potential for next-level growth and creativity and this begins with cultivating inclusivity. We each carry the responsibility to relegate prejudice and foster a vibrant tech landscape where all are welcome.
If you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community and looking to hone new tech skills or find your perfect job, look no further: check out our blog or sign up for our bootcamps.
