Mansplaining to the Pope

MLH Hackcon Nishat Anjum Mansplaining to the Pope The fine print on how to craft inclusive technical spaces.

Nishat Anjum (knee-shot ann-jhum) @thathijabae

What is mansplaining? Why do we mansplain? What can we do to avoid it? #HackconVI @thathijabae

What is mansplaining? Mansplain verb | man·splain | \ ˈman-ˌsplān
to explain something in a condescending way that assumes she has no knowledge about the topic #HackconVI @thathijabae

What is mansplaining? #HackconVI @thathijabae

Why do we mansplain? Eager to show off their knowledge in a topic. Running on assumptions and bias’. Forgetting to engage in conversation. Not taking the time to listen. #HackconVI @thathijabae

Power dynamics exist whether we acknowledge them or not. #HackconVI @thathijabae

Why do we mansplain? You’re explaining their own experiences to them. You’re assuming that they have no prior knowledge of the topic. You’re treating someone as less than you and demeaning their own hard work. You’re displaying a fundamental lack of respect. #HackconVI @thathijabae

At the next meetup or hackathon or workshop strive to be empathetic and aware of those around you. #HackconVI @thathijabae

What can we do to avoid it? Wait until someone asks for an explanation. Make fewer statements and ask more questions. Limit your assertions. Try not to interrupt or speak over anyone. Avoid pedantic corrections and instead only correct major misinformation. #HackconVI @thathijabae