Diversity is our Strength

 

So, this is a blog post I never imagined would be necessary. 

Trump’s travel ban is ill-conceived, divisive, discriminatory and, well, un-American.  I earned my Engineering degree in the U.S., I lived there for 5 years, and I know firsthand that this sort of a policy is the exact opposite of what I came to know about our friends in the United States.

The Canadian Tech Industry has been swift in reacting.  Over the weekend, a group of tech leaders drafted an open letter affirming our industry’s commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.  I signed the letter on behalf of Intelliware, as has our co-founder, Bruno Schmidt.  It’s a small gesture, but in these times, a necessary one.

We couldn’t agree more strongly with the words and sentiments expressed in the letter:

“The Canadian tech community comprises many different nationalities, religions, sexual orientations, gender identities, mental and physical abilities, and perspectives. We believe that this diversity is a source of strength and opportunity.

On this topic, we are united.

Canadian tech companies understand the power of inclusion and diversity of thought, and that talent and skill know no borders. In choosing to hire, train, and mentor the best people in the world, we can build global companies that grow our economy. By embracing diversity, we can drive innovation to benefit the world.”

At Intelliware, tolerance, diversity and respecting the views of others have always been at the core of our corporate culture and something that gives us strength.  For us, we can’t imagine working any other way.  

If there’s any positive to come from Trump’s disturbing actions, here in Canada at least, we know that an entire industry is united in appreciating the value of diversity, and will do what it can to help while our friends to the south recover from what we hope is only a temporary insanity.