Playing devil’s advocate, do you want speakers chosen based on gender, or based on the knowledge they can tech/know?

As someone who helped organized different tech events (non-wordpress universe related). I remember one of those events, 300 applications from people who identify as men. 15 applications from people who identify as women and 8 who I didn’t know. There was 100 speaking spots.

You don’t get paid to speak at WordCamps and your expenses (transportation, accommodation) don’t get paid. That has a factor.

These organizers did a horrible job but if woman don’t apply, if diverse people don’t apply to speak… what else can we do to encourage?

When I help organize tech and non-tech related events…here is the form to apply to speak, I can’t force anyone to apply.