Medium.com/Susan Wu: I Am One of Many: Fixing the Systemic Issues In The Tech Industry

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susan wu
Entrepreneur and Investor. Australia/California. CoFounder of Project Include.
Jul 1
I Am One of Many: Fixing the Systemic Issues In The Tech Industry

I have no further comment on an incident that happened in 2009.

What I experienced did not happen in a vacuum, it happened in an industry that has historically enabled and supported those who have power misusing that power, such that it has become the norm.

I am one of many.

It is important that as an industry and as individuals, we’re committed to change. I believe that with hard work and dedication, each of us can learn from our past mistakes, improve, and become authentic leaders. If we are going to fix this broken system of objectification, harassment, and discrimination in tech, we need as many of us to work together towards a common, shared vision of an improved tech industry as possible.

The point of speaking out is not about any one person in particular, but to reflect upon the systemic crisis that faces the tech industry. As a female or underrepresented minority founder, startup employee, or investor, you endure many layers of challenges that work in concert to thwart your well being and success.

As a female founder especially, the fundraising process feels extremely precarious. Essentially, you’re in a vulnerable position of being the subject of male objectification as an economic asset, and at worst, a sexual object. In a system where there is such a massive imbalance of power, we are often put in challenging situations where defending yourself or even pointing out that power imbalance can lead to gas lighting, ostracism, or worse.

By working together, those with power and without power alike, we can start to make the lasting, productive changes that will improve this entire system for all.
Thanks to EricaJoy.

    TechFeminismVenture CapitalStartup

Go to the profile of susan wu
susan wu

Entrepreneur and Investor. Australia/California. CoFounder of Project Include.
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Responses
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Go to the profile of Melinda Briana Epler
Melinda Briana Epler
Jul 1

Thank you
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Go to the profile of Lants
Lants
Jul 1

Thank you for speaking up. Many look up to you and this has already pushed the door open just a bit further for us all to have a real conversation about predatory behaviour. Time to set new standards as a community.
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