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A woman wearing a camouflage cap and bright orange jacket works on a laptop covered in tech-related stickers. She is seated on a bright yellow chair, with sunlight streaming through nearby windows. — BEING BLACK IN TECH PART 2

Building structures for racial equality is an important conversation across every industry. In tech, the numbers show we still have a long way to go. According to Kim Smouter, Director General at the European Network Against Racism, 75% of people in tech are white, while only 25% are people of color. Tech remains one of the least inclusive industries.

The Need for Diversity in Tech

Fighting racism isn’t a quick fix. It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon requiring deliberate and sustained effort over time. But here’s the thing: technology gives us tools to mobilize, and social media amplifies our voices. There’s a reason to believe change is possible.

One powerful question we need to ask is, Who’s missing from the table?

If people of color aren’t represented during key decisions, we have to ask why. More importantly, we need to figure out how to change that.

A man lies on a white surface surrounded by tech gadgets, books, and personal items, including headphones, a laptop, and a camera. He covers his face with one hand, conveying a mix of focus and exhaustion. — *image: Ola Dapo*

Building Structures for Racial Equality

At Web Summit, Kim Smouter shared practical ways to address the gaps in tech. Here are three actions we can take now.

Hire inclusively by revamping recruitment processes to prioritize diversity at all levels, especially in leadership roles.
Create real accountability by setting and enforcing codes of conduct that address racism and inequality in the workplace.
Educate people about Europe’s colonial past, which shaped much of the systemic racism we see today. Understanding this history is essential for building a better future.

These steps aren’t revolutionary on their own, but they create real progress when implemented consistently.

Young African American woman sitting sitting on the head rest of a couch in a professional environment reading on a tablet. She is dressed in all black with colorful trainers and a large coily afro puff bun. — **How to Eradicate Racism in European Tech**

**The European tech industry has a deep diversity problem, and racism lies at its core. Where do we start?**
1. Fix biased data. Tech relies on data, but when that data reflects bias, the outcomes do too. Companies must question and correct biases in their systems.
2. Amplify the voices of people of color by making space for leadership and decision-making roles where their influence can drive change.
3. Promote social mobility through education. Investing in career development for people of color helps break cycles of inequality.

The Road Ahead

The fight for racial equality in tech won’t be easy, but it’s necessary. It’s about creating an industry where everyone belongs. From hiring practices to leadership representation, companies need to be intentional. By asking the hard questions, amplifying the right voices, and taking real action, we can start building an inclusive future.

What’s one action you or your company can take to amplify diversity in tech?
Join the conversation, share in the comments!

Missed the first part check it out here: WEB SUMMIT: BEING BLACK IN TECH - PART 1