There’s a serious lack of diversity in the technology industry. ITequality strives to take a stand at every opportunity to represent the voices of underrepresented groups in technology. As a company, ITequality is committed to diversity, and it’s own staff sets a high bar for what a diverse organization should look like. Collectively, ITequality is 50% people of color, 67% LGB, 67% TGNC. Unlike the tech industry in general, ITequality is less than 25% white male.
Remember, please don’t label people based on assumptions, stereotypes, looks, style of clothing, hair color, the presence of tattoos and/or piercings, etc. We are all human and have a right to be our own authentic selves at all times.
And now, without further delay, let’s meet Amelia, executive assistant with ITequality.
What were you doing before you joined ITequality?
After going into and out of community college (for an English major), I was a retail employee in order to pay for an apartment independent of my parents. I wasn’t able to keep up with school, work, and therapy and was still getting my life on track, so I dropped school (for now).
How did you learn about ITequality?
A year and a half were spent at Starbucks establishing myself where I met Ashley in the drive-thru window. Ash reached out to me the next day and we’ve been friends ever since.I was hesitant to leave Starbucks with my established customers and co-workers. My passion is communication and people, and Starbucks was a fantastic avenue to meet people and have new experiences. When COVID-19 changed the world, I needed a new option and took Ash up on their offer. Alice and Chelsie are close friends and have been a part of ITEquality for longer than I have. I spent time hanging around their circle and sometimes even going on company lunches without being an employee.
What have you learned since joining ITequality?
Everyone has always been welcoming and ITEQ is a team of amazing people working off a platform of social change and community benefit. I’ve learned how important it is to stand up and give a voice within the system to marginalized people that otherwise don’t get the chance.I came out to my family and friends as bisexual when I was twenty, and have been vocally supportive of my friends who struggle through identity issues. I believe it is essential to stand up for yourself and live your life how you wish to live it. (Without hurting others.)In my off-hours, you can catch me writing, roleplaying, video gaming, and reading. I love experiencing art and reading essays of people’s analysis and thoughts. I’m hoping to be a high school English teacher and a mildly successful author on the side. I want to tell stories of humanity and morality struggles within a fictional fantasy setting. I like using fantasy elements to complement social issues and demonstrate rather than escapism entertainment. I am always happy to meet and speak to a complete stranger and share views and opinions to discuss important issues. I believe in an open line of communication and honesty in all social relationships.
What does being a member of the ITequality team mean to you?
Being a member of this team feels special because every person here values each other and humanity with the express goal of improving people’s lives.
Amelia is just one of the amazing and diverse members of the ITequality team. Pushing the statistics of diversity in technology, and moving the needle of inclusivity. Watch for more team member introductions coming soon.
