Dear, FIRST, Dean Kamen, and Lawrence Cohen

        Starting off in robotics apart of a FTC team, as a shy, closeted gay teen, wasn't really a struggle to me at first, until I started hearing more and more gay jokes. I felt really uncomfortable, I didn't know what to do, and who to report to about this. One day, I just had to let it out, so I talked to a FTC mentor who I acknowledged the environment too, and she handled it well. The jokes slowly came to a stop, and I was really happy, and overall more comfortable. I know that not everyone has the same experience within their teams. For example, there have been accounts, such as @dearfirstrobotics on Instagram, who share a lot of these stories about the injustices and prejudices within some teams, and with some minorities experiences at competitions. 

 I personally believe, there needs to be change within the FIRST community, and that does not start until FIRST hires a Director for ED&I. (As of 7/12/20, the position is still open according to their website) After FIRST hires an ED&I director, I believe that Inspiring Success training should be mandatory for all new and concurrent FIRST mentors, and volunteers. FIRST should also promote the Inspiring Youth Voice training, to students in FIRST, and all of the materials in their "Training on Equity, Diversion and Inclusivity" resource library, on their various social media platforms.

Lately, it has been made clear that vulnerable groups experience a lot of trouble within FIRST as a program, and too much of it can be attributed to mentors and volunteers. They should listen to the problems of these groups and know how to act accordingly because they drive the program and are our role models. Mentors are the backbone of this program, so they need to be closely monitored and trained. Please consider signing this petition for FIRST to start working towards making FIRST a place for all, not for some, not for a few, for all.

Thank you, 

           Chris K & Juli & Serena from @robotsforpositivity