How to write about women on International Women’s Day

I think a lot about how to best present the accomplishments of my organization. I want to put a human face on AI as often as I can, and I want to inspire the next generation of AI thinkers and doers to approach the technology with curiosity and optimism.

When events like International Women’s Day come along, it’s an opportunity for people in positions like mine to highlight some of our team members and put a new lens on a familiar situation. Here are some thoughts on how to do this respectfully and authentically.

Start at home.

One of the best approaches for honoring members of an underrepresented group is to start at home. Instead of profiling a famous woman or someone only tangentially related to your work, celebrate the women that work on your team and talk about how they contribute meaningfully to your mission. Invite these women to opt-in to being included in your messages — this allows enthusiastic people play a part while others can stay out of the spotlight if they wish.

Focus on what you know.

You are the best authority to speak on your own company’s mission, goals, and accomplishments. Highlighting role models from your team is a very authentic way for an organization to express how it supports values the contributions of women. Talk about why your mission is meaningful and how the women you highlight are a key part of making it real.

People first.

My last recommendation around how to craft these types of messages would be to showcase women as people in their roles, rather than putting their gender first and foremost. In STEM in the 21st century, it should no longer be surprising or exceptional that there are women working in these fields. Demonstrate that women are fundamental contributors to the work you do. If you make the message about gender first, it risks implying that it’s somehow exceptional that women are able to do the work you do, rather than the more inclusive message of “look at these amazing team members and why we value them — and they also happen to be women.”

Happy International Women’s Day!