Be the change you want to see.
Black in Robotics (BiR) is a non-profit organization that was formed to address the systemic inequities found in our robotics community by focusing on three primary pillars - community, advocacy, and accountability. We want to bring the robotics community together around these initiatives!
Black in Robotics brings together a global network of Black Roboticists, Allies, and Organizational Sponsors contributing to the goal of enhancing diversity, inclusion and equity in robotics.
We believe that to see increased presence of Black and under-represented minorities in robotics we must actively build community, advocate for diversity and encourage accountability.
Community. Building community through networking and mentorship is a first step to increasing the presence of Black and under-represented minorities in the field of robotics. Our objective is to facilitate these connections and support through hosted events and social media.
Advocacy. We believe that to effect change, we need to advocate for diversity. We do this by gathering opportunities for talent sourcing, connecting industry, academia and the community. In addition, we purposefully highlight the amazing work being done by our community as a means to increase visibility as well as encourage individuals on their journey.
Accountability. We know change is not always immediate, but an important steps is to ensuring progress is to track the progress and highlight success. We hope to work alongside academia and industry to help them find talent, retain talent and highlight progress in increased diversity.
To learn more, please see this editorial: “Robots are not immune to bias and injustice” Howard, Kennedy in Science Robotics, 2020.
Our Objectives.
What Black in Robotics Offers:
Networking and Mentorship
Networking and Mentorship.
We host BiR events and provide access to resources designed to increase diversity in robotics. We provide opportunity to engage in networking with Black roboticist positioned at various career levels.
Job Opportunities
Job Opportunities.
We facilitate Black excellence in industry and academia by bringing together skilled roboticist as well as partnering with industry and academic institutions to present job opportunities.
Education and Outreach
Education and Outreach.
Realizing that it all begins with education and exposure, our membership partners with educational institutions as well as general outreach events to expose the larger community to the excitement and possibilities of robotics.
Accountability and Advocacy
Accountability and Advocacy.
For our Academic and Industry partners, we provide BiR training to coach and guide your team in learning more about topics to increase diversity within your organization.
Research Citing
Research Citing.
We promote Black excellence in publication, promoting research done through our website and social media. We believe this exposure is a key step to encouraging the larger robotics community to recognize and leverage the scientific contributions from diverse members.
Ally Engagement
Ally Engagement.
We are stronger together. We recognize the amazing resource we have in our Ally partners and members and look for ways we can directly work together to increase diversity in many organizations and spaces.