Women in Tech - Why is allyship is important?

As the work day closes off on another Women's International Day, i wanted to discuss the importance of Allyship in business, but also particularly in relation to Women in Tech.

Firstly, how do we define Allyship? It is the practice of using your own privilege and power to support and advocate for marginalized groups who can face systemic barriers and discrimination.

An ally is someone who actively works to challenge bias and inequality, and who supports and amplifies the voices of those who are often excluded or marginalized.

Ultimately, allyship is about creating a more equitable society for all, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

In IT, Women make up on average 26% of people in the industry. Although still not where we would like this to be, it has increased from 19% in 2019 so it is clear the industry is making progress but as a whole, we still have some way to go. Without a diverse workforce, Tech will suffer as we need the diversity so that services and products can be fully innovative.

How do we diversify our workforce? We remove bias, stereotypes and address systemic inequalities. This is relevant beyond just Women in Tech and applies to a multitude of people within business.

For any minority, it is important we have allies within the business who are there to take action and stand up, to ensure our voices are heard.

Without Allies, the change to diversify is harder. Allyship for all Women is important but for Women in Tech is particularly important due to the repeated and continuous challenges faced in this male dominated industry.

In a previous blog, i discussed my experience early in my career, and unfortunately those struggles and discriminations happen far too often among Women in Tech. Here are 7 more reasons that highlight the importance.

1. Addressing systemic inequalities: Women face systemic inequalities and discrimination in various areas of life, such as employment. This is seen more in those male dominated industries such as Tech. Allyship can help to address these issues by challenging biased attitudes, advocating for policy changes, and creating a more inclusive environment.
2. Addressing the gender gap: Women continue to be underrepresented in the tech industry. One way to address this issue is through allyship and recognising what skillset and qualities women bring to Tech
3. Building solidarity: Women often face similar challenges and struggles, regardless of their backgrounds or identities. Allyship can help to build solidarity among women and foster a sense of community and support.
4. Providing support: Women in tech can often feel isolated and face unique challenges. Allies can provide emotional support, mentoring, and sponsorship to help women navigate these challenges and achieve their goals.
5. Combating bias: Bias and discrimination can occur both consciously and unconsciously. Allies can help to identify and challenge bias when they see it, which can help to create a more equitable workplace for women in tech.
6. Creating opportunities: Women may face barriers to accessing opportunities and resources, such as jobs, education, or leadership positions. Allies can help to create opportunities for women by sharing their networks, mentoring, and advocating for their inclusion.
7. Amplifying voices: Women's voices are often marginalized or ignored in various spheres, such as politics, media, or cultural production. Allies can amplify women's voices by listening, validating their experiences, and promoting their perspectives.

This shows the importance of building a community of women and allies so we can all truly #embraceequity.

So if you aren't an ally yet, what can you do to become one? The sheer fact you want to be means you are. You already recognise the importance of being so, but here are some ways you can change your behaviour to align yourself as an ally more.

1. Educate yourself: Learn about the issues that women face, such as sexism, gender-based violence, and gender inequality. Listen to women's experiences and perspectives, and seek out resources such as books, articles, and documentaries to deepen your understanding.
2. Listen and believe: When women share their experiences of discrimination or harassment, listen with an open mind and believe what they say. Avoid dismissing or minimizing their experiences, and validate their feelings and perspectives.
3. Speak up: If you witness sexist behaviour or language, speak up and challenge it. Use your privilege and influence to amplify women's voices and advocate for their inclusion and representation.
4. Take action: Support women-led initiatives and organizations, and take concrete steps to create a more inclusive and equitable environment. This can include mentoring women, advocating for policies that support women's rights, and creating safe spaces where women can express themselves without fear of judgment or harm.
5. Reflect on your own behaviour: Examine your own attitudes and behaviours, and work to challenge any sexist or biased beliefs you may hold. Consider how your actions impact the women around you, and strive to be a positive role model and ally.

If i ask you to take away one action from this blog, it would be to reflect on your own behaviour. Reflect and take action.

Can you speak up more? Can you educate yourself on challenges women face? Do you have an open mindset?

Be part of the change.