In reply to Jay Syder.

I understand the 'goals' of attracting more PEOPLE into the WP community via an award.

But I have some questions about an award attainable only to women.

Are women 'discouraged' from being part of the WP community (however one might define it?)

Is there active hazing that takes place?

Are there strict quotas on the number of women who can be admitted?

Are there specific tests that must be passed to gain entry?

If woman are admitted, are they relegated to the "back of the bus?" (Most won't understand the reference but I remember it well. It is interesting that we are having this discussion on MLK day.)

If the above is true, will this award solve all of that?

Personally, I think that an award only open to women is actually insulting to women. But that's just me.

Those who believe in a meritocracy where 'rewards' are earned on a level playing field of competition, as opposed to 'given' because of race, gender, religion, or privilege... we object to a "free ride" attainable only to one demographic entity.

And what I also don't understand is the perception that there is a shortage of women in the so-called 'community.' I know many women who either own or work in WordPress-only web design shops or who create themes and plugins, or who do social media consulting around the WP platform. Where are the metrics that suggest (much less prove) that there is a 'shortage' of women?

One thing we have learned from the (USA) Affirmative Action laws is that discrimination to combat discrimination is logically flawed and has engendered more discord than it has solved.

Are there any Eskimos in the WordPress community? If not, should we have an award only attainable by Eskimos?

@Syder, I know I'm not going to change your mind, nor that of anyone else here, so I'll get off of my soapbox and 'move on.' But I do want to commend you on presenting your views in a calm, rational, non-aggressive manner... you know... like an adult. I, and I'm sure others here appreciate that... and that we can agree to disagree without bitterness and rancor.