Equity Statement
The color of people's skin, like religion, sexual-orientation, and political affiliations have divided people throughout the ages. BLACK people were enslaved in America in the 1600's, and still today, relations between the races in America is a particular problem. We believe that increasing the representation and participation of Black people in tech helps uplifts oppressed people everywhere.
(Learn about the history of slavery in America. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/slavery)
We believe, and it is proven; TECHNOLOGY saves lives, empowers people, and increases the quality of life for everyone. It is proven, diverse technology teams deliver these ideals best, and diversity produces innovation.
Our members are special; not our brand - this is what we believe. The mission of our organization is shared by thousands of others in a UNITED fashion, and we look to partner with and give respect to the giant pioneers like BDPA and NSBE, and grow with similarly aligned organizations like Black is Tech, Afrotech, and we aspire to learn from the successes of the Black Lives Matter, Me Too, Latinx, gay, lesbian, corporate diversity teams, employee resource groups, and other movements that bring equality. We discriminate against no one.
However, membership in BUILT is a privilege, and we accept the obligation to provide added value to our dues-paying members. We give them extra benefits, but most importantly, we give them a vote, with rights to information. Only members, who abide by our bylaws, may LEAD and serve in leadership positions at BUILT International. We believe in protecting our volunteers, leaders and members.