Horst Rittel first used the term "wicked problem" in the mid-1960's and Wikipedia has it currently defined as, "a problem that is difficult or impossible to solve because of incomplete, contradictory, and changing requirements that are often difficult to recognize. It refers to an idea or problem that cannot be fixed, where there is no single solution to the problem; and "wicked" denotes resistance to resolution, rather than evil. Another definition is "a problem whose social complexity means that it has no determinable stopping point". Moreover, because of complex interdependencies, the effort to solve one aspect of a wicked problem may reveal or create other problems." Wicked problems are problems that cannot be solved by one person - nor by many - in any finite period of time for a multitude of reasons. Racism is indeed a wicked problem. There are those who perpetuate it for their own gain or through their own fears, and there are those who fight to abolish it with every fiber of their being, but if we ignore it and DO NOTHING, NOTHING CHANGES!!! True leaders in business don't get paid to solve the simple problems; it's addressing the unsolvable ones that take resources, teams, and time to improve that are lauded. So what are we going to do?
In my space, I am honored to have been asked to help the TechTalentProject.org create the funnel of diverse talent for technology leadership positions in the US government come January when hundreds of roles will open. If our government is to represent all Americans, then it should be representative of ALL Americans. Regardless of who wins the Presidency, this is an opportunity to make a huge difference and I'm taking it. If you would like to be a part of the solution and bring your talents and efforts toward furthering the digital evolution and representation of our government, visit TechTalentProject.org.
I have championed diversity and inclusion throughout my life and will continue to do so no matter who tells me, "Things will never change." I KNOW I have positively impacted tens of thousands of people in tech by creating communities and partnering with others to promote, mentor, and develop leaders regardless of gender, ethnicity, orientation, or creed. I will keep helping companies improve their diversity and inclusion efforts through recruiting and building talented teams. I will continue educating students at every socioeconomic and grade level because they are our future. No person alone can change the world, but if we each DO our part, and BE the change we want to see in the world, together we can make it a better place. It's not trite. It's fact.
DO SOMETHING!