[Diversity-talk] UK Chapter Feedback on Diversity Statement

[Rory McCann]

Hi Adam,

Thanks for the feedback from OSMUK.

The 2nd line of the Diversity Statement says:

> We have created this diversity statement because we believe that a diverse OpenStreetMap community is stronger and more vibrant. A diverse community where people treat each other with respect has more potential contributors and more sources for ideas, and will create a better map. 

Which could be read as a “why”. Personally, I view combating 
racism/sexism/bigotry as a moral imperative. Also some OSM groups around 
the world have welcomed the statement.

Just FYI there is no Diversity Working Group, but instead a Special 
Committee. Working Groups are semi-permanent. This mailing list is for 
general interest in OSM & diversity and isn't specifically for the 
Diveristy & Inclusivity Special Committeee (DISCo!)

(Although I am on this list and on the DISCo)

On 19.04.20 22:38, Adam Hoyle wrote:
> Hi Diversity Working Group,
> 
> I'm writing on behalf of the UK Local Chapter (OSMUK). Regarding the OSM 
> Foundation Diversity Statement, we asked our members whether they 
> supported the statement and to provide any anonymous feedback which we 
> could pass on to the working group.
> 
> The result was a broad level of support, with a few points, which I am 
> passing to you here:
> 
>       I don't personally understand the problems yet and would love to
>     find out, and increase the size and breadth of the community.
> 
> 
>       I support this as it is, on the basis that any pro-diversity
>     statement is better than none, but I think it's missing some
>     important points. It says that OSM wants a more diverse community
>     but not why! And it also fails to say clearly that diversity is
>     good, and that discrimination is also bad.
>     I would suggest, for example, adding a new sentence between the
>     second and third sentences like "We believe that the greater the
>     diversity in our community, the better OpenStreetMap will be.”
> 
> 
>       It's a sad comment on life today that this is even necessary. Also
>     a policy statement is merely a set of fine words which will remain
>     empty without an action plan and without an enforcement procedure.
> 
> 
>       I also agree with the comment about adding a sentence explaining why.
> 
> 
> 
> Best,
> 
> Adam
> 
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