Attracting Diversity – Kathryn (Katy) Huff – SciPy Has an Intersectionality Problem
Attracting Diversity – Kathryn (Katy) Huff – SciPy Has an Intersectionality Problem
0 0
win_or_scipy
A presentation for SciPy2014 which took place during the "You Win or You SciPy" BOFOn Github katyhuff / win_or_scipy
Attracting Diversity
Kathryn (Katy) Huff
SciPy Has an Intersectionality Problem
What's Intersectionality?
No Really. What is it?
"... the study of intersections between forms or systems of oppression, domination or discrimination. An example is ... that the experience of being a [rainbow] [unicorn] cannot be understood in terms of being [rainbow], and of being [a unicorn], considered independently, but must include the interactions, which frequently reinforce each other." -- Wikipedia
Why So Few?
Scientific python seems to reside in a technological space where the combined diversity issues of both science and computing compound one other to ill-effect.
Suggestion: Cast a Wide Net
The old developers aren't diverse. So, we need new developers to join in.
Lower the Barrier, Not Standards
“The feedback giver explained that he 'used high standards' in evaluating the essays for publication in the teaching magazine. Still, he said, having read the student’s essay, he believed the student could meet those standards. His criticism, this form of feedback implies, was offered to help the student meet the publication’s high standards. Black students trusted this feedback as much as white students, and trusting it powerfully motivated them to improve their essay.”-- Claude Steele, Whistling Vivaldi
Easy Suggestions
- New Developer Instructions
- Comprehensive Documentation
- Accessible Listhost
- Define Expectations Clearly
- Curate Low Hanging Fruit
- Give Permissions Generously
- Strict Issue Assignment Workflow
Harder Suggestions
- Targeted Sprints
- Appoint an Ambassador
- Mentor Users Directly
- Consider Users Conferences
Credit!
A lot of this material came from my personal experience. However, much of it was annealed from conversations with colleagues throughout the scientific and computing communities (too many of you to name). I got some specific ideas for this particular talk from here and here.