Speaking out about misogyny in the tech world

(written by lawrence krubner, however indented passages are often quotes). You can contact lawrence at: lawrence@krubner.com, or follow me on Twitter.

Reflections regarding gender conflict in the tech world:

The first point is simple. Touching someone without their consent is assault. There is no excuse for not knowing and understanding this painfully simple concept. If you don’t, seek professional help before you hurt someone.

The second point, though, demonstrates just how pervasive misogyny is in the technology and open source community. I am extremely disturbed at the number of “LOL STFU you asked for it” posts. “Suck it up, if you can’t take the heat get out of the kitchen” is just as bad, just less obscene. Not only are there members of our community that are supporters of abusive behavior, they’re willing to post their vitriolic opinions for the world to see. They make it appear that we as a community consider their abhorrent attitudes acceptable.

Standing up and speaking out against abusive behavior is a critical first step, but this is a systemic problem deeply rooted in the culture of our community. It’s not just that we need to stop it, abusive behavior shouldn’t be happening it in the first place!

Post external references

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    http://blogs.osuosl.org/gchaix/2010/11/07/open-source-misogyny/
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