Thread by @marycarty

If you need help with #diversity & #inclusion for your program don't contacting me once a year, it's rude. Why should I do your work? What have you done in the last year? If inclusion is that important, why wait to the last minute? If it us really important, do the work.

Build a network, talk to everyone.
Make sure your website, press release and all materials are inclusive. Who is on stage, who is asking the questions, what company do you showcase.
Is the language inclusive. Can young women or people of colour see themselves there, taking part.

Do your speakers, mentors and admins reflect the community you want to engage with?

This work takes time. Lots of time. You need to think through every aspect of the program. Every. Aspect. Going to your network alone won't solve the problem.

Pay speakers and mentors. Don't expect people to work for free.
Be polite. Don't expect people to help you build out this diverse and inclusive network. They did the work. Understand what you are asking. Manners is so important.

Please do not ask to pick my brain, forward to my contacts or make introductions to my network if you have not done the work. This is very bad manners and extremely entitled, even if you don't see it.

To sum up. If you are designing or recruiting for a programme, do the work. Inclusion does not just happen. It takes care, thoughtfulness, deliberate action, empathy, and a willingness to learn and be educated. Don't expect others to do the heavy lifting.

By all means ask for help. Pay people for their time. Audit your program, get feedback. Do so with humility and kindness. We can't change anything if we keep perpetuating the status quo.

@maryannpierce @MMaryMcKenna @jkhoey @psb_dc @DeniseMcQuaid

#inclusion #diversity #equality