Open Source Summit + Embedded Linux Conference + OSPOCon 2021

Some open source projects are succeeding in including people who are not in the “majority” – women, people of color, LGBTQ+. Other projects are struggling. Projects that are seen as not welcoming will have a more difficult time attracting the fresh perspectives and energy of those who have much to offer but who don’t feel like they have a seat at the table and a voice. David Stewart brings the perspective of a leader who has been in the room for the launch of successful open source projects. David is also someone acknowledged as an ally by those who are not in the majority. This talk will include case studies of projects which are succeeding in inclusiveness and what behaviors are critical for them. David will also address roadblocks to inclusiveness he has seen in a number of projects, with practical advice to address them. This talk is mostly geared towards others in the majority who would like to grow in being more welcoming. It’s not just for “allies” but “outlaws” who are not yet identified as allies, and maybe some “dinosaurs” who find a lot of this inclusion stuff hard to apply. The talk will also have value to those not in the majority who will help us understand what maybe obvious to them, and oblivious to the majority.