Our team is centered in a diverse, urban school, and as a result, the representation on our team has been consistently diverse since it's origin. We aim to promote inclusivity to people of any kind for our team, and look to do the same with the teams we mentor at other high schools in Minneapolis.
I personally feel that the whole idea of "Changing the face of STEM" should not only focus on gaining female involvement, but also focus on people of differing cultural backgrounds, economic classes, sexual orientation, etc.
FIRST is a life-changing program, and trying to do what we can to include anyone and everyone is a step in the right direction.
However, it is just as important to welcome diverse groups as well. I recall some pretty nasty comments said to one of the teams we mentor at a regional last year, and it's that kind of stuff that turns people away from involvement in FIRST and STEM.
Diversity in FIRST is a mission we must all step up to the plate and take initiative on. Welcoming and encouraging diversity on the regional, national and international level is a step in the right direction.
