AnitaB.org, a non-profit whose mission envisions a future where the people who imagine and build technology mirror the people and societies for whom they build it, announced that they have conducted a restructuring that includes a reduction in force affecting a significant proportion of their workforce. Its annual conference, Grace Hopper Celebration, to be held virtually and in Philadelphia on October 8-11, will be held as planned.
Many organizations whose missions center people who are historically underrepresented are experiencing similar business setbacks. The convergence of forces that underpin these setbacks include a volatile economy, widespread layoffs especially in the technology sector, downturns experienced in corporate investments in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, and an overall reduction in giving and philanthropy that some are calling a generosity crisis. In a climate where even the largest of Human Resources organizations are backing away from mentioning equity in initiatives, non-profits with DEI missions are shuttering their doors at an alarming rate. Financial support for organizations like AnitaB.org is shrinking faster than their commitments and they struggle to keep apace.
Women’s movements are at a critical moment. While many feel the pressure of increasing attacks on their liberties and agency, galvanizing efforts have never engendered more hope. These efforts inspire immediate action to lend financial support to women and nonbinary people and the organizations that support them.
AnitaB.org took this painful measure to protect their ability to continue to invest in their mission and in the futures of the women and nonbinary technologists they serve. The organization knows that collective, community-based efforts–prioritizing “we” alongside “me”–is a powerful force to defend DEI gains in every sector.