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Why does diversity still bother black technology workers?
Looks like technology is turning.
Over the years, an industrial giant has declined the call to reveal data on labor diversity, making it difficult to determine exactly how much Silicon Valley is whiter and male than the general population. But Google’s 2014 decision to publish racial and gender damage from its workforce seems to signal a big change.
The figures show an industry dominated by white and Asian men. Of the nearly 50,000 employees at Google in 2014, 83% were male, 60% were white, and 30% were Asian. Only 2.9% are Latin, and 1.9% are Black. A year later, when other large Silicon Valley companies began releasing their own diversity figures, Google announced it would dedicate $ 150 million to increase diversity in the company.
In the years since, Google has more than doubled its workforce but made minimal progress towards being more representative. The amount is the same in all industries.
This lack of diversity – in May, Google reported that 5.9% of its employees and contractors were Latinos and 3.7% were blacks – extended to the ranks of top executives, entrepreneurs who found companies, and venture capitalists who invested in startups .
The industry, which boasts of its agility, has failed to move the needle at workplace diversity. The end result is the entire economic sector – the sector that has created the most wealth in California in the last 10 years, prints billionaires, and reshaped the San Francisco Bay Area in its own image – which is functionally barely open to Blacks and Latins.
Technology leaders often point to “plumbing problems” to explain Black’s lack of recruitment and promotion. But in 2016, 12% of graduates with degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics were black, according to the Center for National Education Statistics. Even graduate classes in computer science at Stanford, Silicon Valley’s elite training ground, are more diverse than companies just down the road from campus.
Whether you are setting targets based on national populations or STEM graduates, several technology companies are approaching, said Freada Kapor Klein, a founding partner of the venture capital company Kapor Capital, which has advocated an increase in technological diversity in decades.
“There are many hard and fast figures that you can use to set up goal posts,” Kapor Klein said. “But [tech companies] not even in the parking lot – they are so far from the field that they need binoculars to see them. “
The problem, according to Kapor Klein’s estimate, is not a matter of education but access and support. A number of Black technology professionals agree that the industry’s reliance on personal relationships to provide access and opportunities is partly to blame, producing network effects that conflict with Black and Latino inclusions.
The origin of the technology ecosystem – venture capital funds – shows the problem.
Kanyi Maqubela, managing partner of Kindred Ventures, said that the industry’s dependence on personal relationships perpetuates a gate maintenance system that is almost designed to keep investors like him out.
Black investors make up less than 1% of venture capitalists. And this is a small world to begin with. In 2018, only 713 individual investors in large venture funds, which are defined as having more than $ 250 million managed, have the power to lead transactions, sit on the board, and write checks to invest in companies, according to an Information survey. Of that group, 11 are Latino and seven are Black.
A number of leading companies – such as Sequoia, Benchmark, Greylock, and Kleiner Perkins – have no Black partners at all.
Large groups of money investing in venture capital funds as limited partners will trust new venture capitalists to handle their money only if more investors have worked with them in the past to guarantee it – and Black’s established investors are few and far between .
When a Black VC came out to try to raise new funds from that limited partner, Maqubela said, “They take all the demographic patterns they know and apply them purely to you.”
“I am fortunate to have attracted or recruited a number of mentors who decided to train me and guarantee to me, almost all white men,” Maqubela said, “so when I went out to raise funds, I had more than a dozen people who spoke and made calls. on my behalf as a way to show that I am at the club. “
The barrier made it difficult for Black VC to create a strong track record of investing large sums of money and generating large returns for their own records. BLCK VC, a group founded in 2018 as a support and organizing network, has a mission to increase the number of Black VCs from 200 to 400 by 2024, in an industry with nearly 4,000 active investors throughout the country.
“I have talked to a black VC who can move me around intellectually about finance, products, anything, but didn’t know you needed strong references to be trusted by LP,” Maqubela said. “This is evidence of the structural nature of how venture capital is damaged.”
This system was created for a venture capital landscape that is less diverse than other mainstream financial institutions. Six percent of investment bankers and almost 9% of black financial consultants, compared to less than 1% for venture capital, according to a Harvard Business School Studies 2017.
Problems in venture capital remain throughout the industry.
The percentage of black employees in large technology companies remains low: 2.9% on Salesforce, 3.8% on Facebook, 4.4% on Slack, 4.5% on Microsoft, and 6% on Twitter. Lyft and Uber’s workforce are 9% and 9.3% Black, but are heavily biased towards lower-paid operations teams. Apple’s workforce is 9% Black, but that includes retail employees. Amazon, which employs nearly 800,000 people worldwide, mostly in low warehouses and logistics jobs, has a workforce of 26.5% black overall, but only 8.3% is black among managers.
The number of black people in leadership or high paid technical roles is still lower. For example, at Google, only 2.6% leadership and 2.4% Black technical workers. On Facebook, black people only make 3.1% of them in leadership roles and 1.5% of them in technical roles.
Less than 1% of startup founders who receive venture funding are Black. And with few Black investors sitting on their boards, the percentage of Black’s top executives in large technology companies is even lower.
The problem is not the lack of qualified candidates, but the company’s reluctance to open its doors, said Bari Williams, head of law at Human Interest, a financial services startup.
Companies are reluctant to expand the schools they recruit to include black colleges and universities, said Williams, who advocates diversity in Silicon Valley. “It always comes to some semblance of seeing it as lowering the bar,” he said. Williams, who used to work at StubHub and Facebook, said he saw candidates passed because they attended HBCU.
Many technology companies also rely heavily on references from current employees, a system that is not uncommon in business but which can strengthen network effects. “Who do you usually refer to? People who look and act and dress and talk and do the same things you do,” Williams said.
After being hired, employees must overcome further obstacles to success. People in senior roles “want to guide and care for people who look like them or remind them of themselves,” Williams said. “So you don’t have someone who will advocate for you.”
The result is that even when blacks and Latinos come in, they often find themselves looking for a way out before long, and turnover remains high.
“The technological approach to diversity in recent years has been to fill a bathtub with an open drain,” said Kapor Klein, who co-authored a 2017 study on the topic. He said companies need to do hard work to examine everything from recruitment and investment practices to those running the HR department to eradicating alienating practices and excluding underrepresented groups. “If they are biased, correct them,” he said.
Since the national protest over the murder of George Floyd in police custody triggered an examination of structural racism throughout American society, a number of venture capital funds and technology companies have announced initiatives to remedy the lack of representation of blacks and Latinos.
Japanese tech giant SoftBank, which has made waves in the technology world with a 100 billion dollar Vision Fund in recent years, announced a $ 100 million Opportunity Fund in early June to invest exclusively in color entrepreneurs. On the same day, Andreessen Horowitz, a leading venture fund in Silicon Valley with $ 14 billion under management, announced a similar fund that began with $ 2.2 million from corporate partners but was scheduled to grow with more contributions.
A number of companies have issued statements of solidarity in protest, although some have been in conflict with the company’s business and recruitment practices to date. Microsoft and Apple have committed to focus on the recruitment and retention of Black employees, with Apple pledging $ 100 million to support the effort. And many companies have committed to supporting nonprofit racial justice or Black-owned businesses, with Google promising more than $ 175 million and Facebook and Amazon donating $ 10 million to nonprofit racial justice. Facebook also announced that it would dedicate $ 100 million to support Black’s business this year, through a mix of free grants and advertising credits on its platform, and committed to giving $ 100 million of business to Black’s suppliers every year, among other efforts.
Black technology professionals, who have seen a wave of commitments come and go, say they are waiting to see if this promise results in real changes in hiring, mentoring, and investing.
Brentt Baltimore, senior colleague at Los Angeles Greycroft’s venture fund and member of the BLCK VC, said that he and his colleagues in the group have been flooded in recent weeks with questions from people in the industry asking how to do better.
Baltimore said that he was glad that more people were discussing the issue, but what was really needed was “boots on the ground”: consistent money, time and leadership dedicated to actively bringing more Black professionals and technology investors into the industry.
Without that, he said, “I don’t see much structural change.”
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Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.
How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?
The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.
Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.
How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?
Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:
- Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
- Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
- Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
- Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.
How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?
Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:
- Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
- Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
- Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.
Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?
When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.
If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.
What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?
Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:
– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.
– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.
– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.
– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.
Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.
Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?
If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:
– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.
– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.
Conclusion
Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.
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When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.
Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.
Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.
Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.
Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.
European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.
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Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.
Creating an Optimal Habitat
One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.
- Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
- Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.
- Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
- Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
- Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Regular Health Checks
Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.
- Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
- Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.
Environmental Enrichment
Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.
- Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
- Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.
Conclusion
By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.
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