Written by: Red Nardos
Black History Month is a time to reflect on the contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history but it is also a time to remember the struggles and challenges they have faced and continue to face. Just as those who have had to overcome obstacles and continue to push forward, we too, must learn from our experiences and use them to be better.
Starship strives everyday to bring our core values to life. These are our values guiding each of us and they don’t stop at the work we do within this company but extend further to the people we work with, the people we reach, and the impact we seek to create far beyond. Each journey, whether it be personal or professional, is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Let’s first affirm that yes, even now in 2023, diversity in tech is a concern. The Kapor Center’s 2022 State of Tech Diversity report found that, “Between 2014 and 2021, the industry produced only a 1% increase in Black representation within technical roles in large tech companies.” The goal is to reach a point where it is universally acknowledged that a workplace that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive benefits everyone. Such work environments provide a space for a variety of perspectives, foster creativity, boost problem-solving skills, and drive innovation. As a company, we’re diligently advocating towards diversifying our leadership team (representation matters) and expanding upon our DEI commitments. As the late activist and literary icon, Maya Angelou, said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
By working as a team and allowing data to guide the way here at Starship, we can achieve more together than we ever could alone. As we reflect on the countless barriers and obstacles that BIPOC individuals have overcome, we are inspired by this resilience and determination to conquer adversity while climbing over every curb knowing that we too, can push through these challenges. Our Black colleagues, friends and families’ dedication serves as a reminder that with perseverance, we can always deliver on our goals and aspirations.
In the spirit of progress and innovation, we want to use this time to be reminded of the purpose of Black History Month through our conscious recognition of the leaders in history that brought us to where we are today. Later this month, Starship will be sharing highlights of Black contributors in the AI and robotics space, shedding light on the outstanding work our BIPOC pioneers have accomplished. Without their outstanding contributions, AI and robotics wouldn’t be where it is today.
