The Tech Talent Charter (TTC) has highlighted concerning trends in the tech industry regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). Despite progress in the past five years, the organization warns that carelessness, budget cuts, and rollbacks could halt or even reverse the progress made.
The 2023 annual benchmarking report from TTC revealed a lack of leadership buy-in and the risk of DE&I initiatives becoming performative rather than intentional. The report emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent further regression in DE&I efforts.
TTC observed a shift in the tech industry over the past three years, with many firms shelving their DE&I initiatives in favor of other priorities. The report highlighted the potential loss of hard-won progress in D&I and urged companies to refocus their efforts before the situation worsens.
While TTC signatories show dedication to DE&I efforts, the overall industry faces challenges in retaining diverse talent. Women are increasingly leaving the sector, citing reasons such as lack of inclusivity, unequal pay, and limited promotional opportunities. The report emphasized the importance of creating a supportive internal culture to retain diverse hires.
The report also highlighted the need for more comprehensive data collection regarding underrepresented groups in tech. By focusing on specific demographics, companies can better track the effectiveness of their DE&I initiatives and address barriers to diversity in leadership roles.
Overall, the report underscored the importance of ongoing commitment to DE&I efforts in the tech industry. Without continued support and investment, progress in diversity and inclusion may falter, jeopardizing the future of a more inclusive tech sector.