What is Out in Tech?
Out in Tech unites the LGBTQ+ tech community with 14,000 members in 9 cities. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we inspire LGBTQ+ youth to pursue careers in tech and we amplify the digital voices of LGBTQ+ activists around the world.
What’s the problem?
In 70+ countries worldwide, it’s a crime to be openly LGBTQ, in many cases punishable by death (WTF?!). Even in the U.S., discrimination against LGBTQ people is rampant -- we’re still debating whether a gay couple can enjoy dessert at their wedding (here’s looking at you, U.S. Supreme Court!).
What are we doing about it?
Unfortunately, many LGBTQ groups globally don’t have websites that would allow them to fundraise, share resources, and build community where people need it the most. Out in Tech connects talented developers, designers, and copywriters to activists worldwide to build WordPress.com websites and digital assets.
By the end of 2017, Out in Tech will have built 40+ websites for LGBTQ organizations over the past 18 months. And we wont stop until every LGBTQ+ organization around the world feels the love!
Example #1: Harassment of LGBTQ Youth in California
Problem: School can be a rough place for LGBTQ-identifying students. Approximately 74% were verbally harassed because of their sexual orientation and 55% because of their gender expression.
Our Impact: In June 2017, Out in Tech built a data dashboard to make it easier for researchers to analyze the data of a recent study to inform academic study of school climate. http://williamsinstitute.ucla.edu/lgbtq-youth-in-california
Example #2: Combating Widespread Transphobia in Jamaica
Problem: Jamaica has been described as one of the most homophobic countries on earth. According to Human Rights Watch, “many LGBT Jamaicans become effectively homeless, forced to flee their homes and sometimes the country, and denied full citizenship rights.”
Our Impact: In Sept 2017, Out in Tech volunteers built a website for TransWave Jamaica, the country’s first non-profit solely dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of the transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex communities. https://transwaveja.org
How do we plan to grow the program?
In 2018, we’ll support LGBTQ+ groups around the world with even more gusto! In addition to building websites, the Out in Tech community will explore systemic issues like financial inclusion, data collection, and cybersecurity. We’ll create a global network of expertise, connecting even more of our members to LGBTQ+ activists abroad.
How can I help?
We thought you’d never ask! You can help by donating to our crowdfunding campaign (no amount too small), sharing the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn (tag OutinTech, we’ll show you that sweet, sweet emoji loving), and volunteering at a future event. Whatever you can do, we thank you and love you for it.
Seriously - check out this savage swag 🏆💯:
- $25: Access to invite-only LinkedIn group for Supporters of Out in Tech
- $50: Exclusive campaign t-shirt + Access to invite-only LinkedIn group for Supporters of Out in Tech
- $100: I <3 Out in Tech Tote Bag + Exclusive campaign t-shirt + Access to invite-only LinkedIn group for Supporters of Out in Tech
- $250: VIP ticket to Out in Tech Talks weekend (March 23-24, 2018) + I <3 Out in Tech Tote Bag + Exclusive campaign t-shirt + Access to invite-only LinkedIn group for Supporters of Out in Tech
- $500: Recognition on Out in Tech website + VIP ticket to Out in Tech Talks weekend (March 23-24, 2018) + Exclusive campaign t-shirt + Access to invite-only LinkedIn group for Supporters of Out in Tech
