The Linux Foundation Member Summit 2025

Research has shown that diversity is not just a buzzword but a critical factor that significantly impacts the effectiveness and success of open-source communities. Building an inclusive environment requires more than recognizing the importance of diversity; it demands concrete actions, tangible outcomes, and a genuine commitment to creating a welcoming space for all contributors. This talk draws from an in-depth study of the GNOME Project's diversity and inclusion strategies, examining the opportunities and challenges in fostering inclusiveness. By exploring these experiences, the aim of this talk is to provide actionable recommendations for improving diversity efforts.

While some open-source projects have implemented strategies to create a diverse and inclusive environment, they often struggle to achieve impactful outcomes. How can we move beyond setting diversity and inclusion strategies to achieve measurable results? Are policies and initiatives enough to foster true inclusiveness? In this talk, I will share recommended strategies to foster contributions from diverse groups.