The Necessity of Including Black People in Technology

By DaMarko Webster

The field of technology is a rapidly evolving landscape that has a profound impact on nearly every aspect of our lives. From communication to healthcare, transportation to entertainment, technology shapes our world and defines the future. However, the underrepresentation of Black people in technology remains a significant concern. This essay explores the reasons why it is necessary to include Black people in technology and the numerous benefits that such inclusion can bring.

One of the most compelling reasons to include Black people in technology is to promote diversity and equality within the industry. Technology has become an integral part of our global society, and it should reflect the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of the people it serves. By including Black individuals, we broaden the range of voices and ideas contributing to technological advancements. It ensures that technology is designed to address the needs of all communities, rather than catering to a narrow subset of the population.

The underrepresentation of Black people in technology implies a loss of untapped potential. Numerous talented individuals are often excluded from the industry due to various systemic barriers and biases. By actively seeking to include Black people in technology, we unlock a wealth of unique perspectives, talents, and skills that can revolutionize the field. Encouraging Black individuals to pursue careers in technology not only benefits them personally but also enriches the industry as a whole.

Including Black people in technology has profound economic implications. Technology is a rapidly growing sector with vast opportunities for job creation and economic growth. By ensuring that Black people have equal access to technology education, training, and employment opportunities, we empower them to participate fully in the digital economy. This, in turn, helps reduce socioeconomic disparities that have historically plagued marginalized communities. Increased representation in technology can create a pathway to upward mobility, leading to economic empowerment and improved quality of life for Black individuals and their communities.

The inclusion of Black people in technology helps challenge stereotypes and biases that have long plagued society. Unfortunately, racial biases persist in various aspects of our lives, including technology. By including more Black individuals in the industry, we can break down stereotypes and demonstrate the intellectual capabilities, creativity, and innovation that Black professionals bring to the table. This, in turn, fosters a more inclusive and equitable society, inspiring future generations and debunking harmful narratives.

Technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the products, services, and platforms that we interact with daily. The exclusion of Black perspectives and experiences from the design and development process can result in products that fail to adequately meet the needs of diverse populations. By including Black people in technology, we ensure that the creation of technology is inclusive, considerate, and accessible to all. Including diverse voices in the development process leads to more inclusive design choices, resulting in products that cater to a broader range of users.

The inclusion of Black people in technology is not just an act of fairness and justice, but a necessity for the advancement of the industry and the betterment of society as a whole. Promoting diversity, tapping into untapped potential, empowering communities, challenging biases, and creating technology for all are all essential reasons why it is necessary to include Black people in technology. By embracing and celebrating diversity, we pave the way for a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable future for everyone.