Internetworkers: http://www.ibiblio.org/internetworkers/

["uzoma nwosu" <uzoma AT metalab.unc.edu>]

> I haven't seen anything about this group that promotes non-diversity.   I
> believe the group promotes what is says it does "Internetworkers".  I
> haven't seen anything that would turn African American's or other
> races away
> from the group.  Your invitations to group gatherings are always
> open.   The
> website is great and informative, and promotes, once again,
> Internetworkers.
>

I do agree that this group does not promote non-diversity; most
organizations don't.  But saying "we accept everybody" and not exposing
ourselves to the community makes a flawed statement.  We are only as diverse
as the people we include.  The fact is that minorities are smaller
percentage in technology-related fields than other professions.  You see
black people all over Triangle yet how many do you see in this field?

<tangent rant="on">
When I went to the Venture 2000 Conference, I counted two other
African-Americans, both male.  No minority VC's or the like.  I don't
remember the attendance numbers but I would speculate that black people made
up .5% of the conference (so I probably mattered much less than real life).

The sponsors for the conference were open to everyone, which is fair.  But I
guarantee you that efforts to bring minority entrepreneurs in were not on
the priority list, which is tragic.
</tangent>

I believe that we need more inclusive options developed for bringing in
folks.  Possible solutions are better than "we are open to everyone".

> (I just don't have time, as a parent my after hours time is taken up with
> kids, my children play softball/baseball and both play All Stars,
> my husband
> coaches, etc.)

Ah yes, the parenthood.  But this does mean that you will bring the family
to the picnic, yes?  :)

>
> I myself am hispanic/latina...
>
> Laura N.

cool.

Uzoma