As AI and technology continue to reshape our world, alarming disparities remain in gender and racial representation – Black women hold 2% of technology roles and women earn only 18% of new computer science degrees.
Dedicated to changing this, Black Girls Code, in partnership with GoldieBlox, has launched a new season of Code Along Jr., an initiative designed to empower the next generation of technologists with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a field where Black women have long been underrepresented.
Founded in 2011, Black Girls Code was created to inspire and prepare Black girls by fostering confidence, providing access and instilling a strong sense of belonging necessary to lead in the technology industry. Through education, representation and mentorship, Black Girls Code is working to dismantle barriers and ensure that Black women not only enter technology spaces but excel in them.
Cristina Mancini, chief executive officer of Black Girls Code, shares their commitment to breaking down the barriers that have historically excluded Black women from the technology industry. By celebrating Black joy and leadership through active guidance and community, Black Girls Code redefines how young women of color perceive themselves in the technology industry.
“For too long, with so little representation, a whole demographic seems not to believe that technology is for them, but the truth is that technology is for everyone,” said Mancini.
“Why shouldn’t the next Sam Altman be a Black woman? I truly believe that we can build a technological industry and future that is created by us, for everyone.”
“Addressing the gaps in representation isn’t a technology problem, it’s a human problem,” Mancini said.
“When I joined Black Girls Code a year and a half ago, I was driven by the following question: ‘What is the cost of inaction?’” Mancini said.
“In order to enact change, to build a more joyful, smarter and safer future, we need to set the example and prove that Black girls don’t just belong in those spaces, but that they can lead and shape them.”
Mancini emphasized that successful representation for young Black women in technology extends beyond just who writes the code.
“It’s bigger than that. It’s about who’s at all of the tables that make up the ecosystem. Who’s leading companies, sitting on boards, securing funding, shaping policies and setting the direction of this industry?” Mancini explained.
“When entire demographics are missing from the rooms where technologies are conceived, we leave room for bias and harm,” she said.
By broadening the definition of what it means to be in tech, Black Girls Code is working to dismantle the barriers that prevent young girls from seeing themselves as part of the industry.
“Too often kids – especially girls – are told they’re ‘not interested in tech,’ when really, they just haven’t been exposed to how tech connects with what they love – music, gaming, mental health, climate activism, storytelling, and social justice,” said Mancini.
“Technology is becoming integral to growth in all of these industries. When we show them how technology aligns with their passions, we unlock their full potential and open doors to careers they never knew could be for them.”
Black Girls Code is dedicated to transforming the technology industry by increasing representation and creating opportunities for the next generation of Black women. Support the mission, raise awareness and if you are able, mentor or partner to help Black Girls Code achieve their goal of launching one million Black girls into technology by 2040.
To learn more about Code Along Jr., visit: WeAreBGC.org/CodeAlong. Young coders can also subscribe to the Black Girls Code YouTube channel and get the latest updates on Code Along and Code Along Jr. by following @BlackGirlsCode across all social media platforms.
