Introducing the CFS: DEI Recorded Edition for the (Virtual) KCSSUG.
When you run a user group, conference, etc.. you sometimes are faced with the issue of not getting enough diversity in your submissions. I think about this a lot and try to figure out levers I can pull to make changes, even if they are small. Time seems to be a big factor for many in underrepresented groups, and I’m certainly no stranger to that dilemma myself.
So I’m trying something new with my user group: a recorded option that isn’t bound by a specific date/time. The idea came after realizing that there are important voices that need to be heard in the community, but having availability that coincides with a static schedule can be sometimes difficult for underrepresented speakers. I want to introduce another way for all voices to be heard: the #KCSSUG YouTube channel. In addition to providing a space for speakers to be heard, it also provides a great benefit for our members to see more content from people they can either relate to and/or get new perspectives from. Diversity of perspective and experience brings more knowledge to others.
Speakers will submit their topics as normal (please feel free to submit multiple), which will go through a normal selection process. Here are the formats options available for sessions:
- Have a one-on-one talk with the organizer about a specific topic.
- Submit with multiple speakers to have a round table discussion with organizer.
- Record at home at a time convenient to you.
If you have an idea of another option, throw it in the notes section of your submission. You can submit any length, including lightning. Let’s go crazy and not restrict ourselves.
Well – actually – there is a restriction. Technically 2: it has to be approved and can’t contain sponsor content. Obviously we want to make sure that we serve quality content, but rarely have I seen that as an issue and I can give suggestions to get you polished if you are feeling you need it. Cough cough: New Stars of Data Speaker Improvement library. Oh oh! Speaking of which, I see a couple there I need to look/relook at myself.
This will only work if people know about it, so please share far and wide. In fact, after sharing, steal the idea for your own group. I won’t tell. I’d also LOVE to hear your ideas on other things I could be doing.
WHAT ABOUT YOUR REGULAR SCHEDULED SESSIONS?
No worries, we will still have those. Our call for speakers on our regular schedule will go out in April-ish. We currently have a Evening option (6PM CDT) and a lunch&learn option (12 PM CDT). We will be sending out additional information to see if the day of week works for everyone so stay tuned.
Data Work Mom 