https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/slaveryThe color of people’s skin, like religion, sexual-orientation, and political affiliations have divided people throughout the ages. BLACK people were enslaved in America in the 1600s, and still today, relations between the races in America are a particular problem. We believe that increasing the representation and participation of Black people in tech helps uplift oppressed people everywhere.

(Learn about the history of slavery in America. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/slavery)

We believe, and it is proven; TECHNOLOGY saves lives, empowers people, and increases the quality of life for everyone. It is proven that diverse technology teams deliver these ideals best, and diversity produces innovation.

Our members are special; not our brand – this is what we believe. Thousands of others share the mission of our organization in a UNITED fashion, and we look to partner with and give respect to the giant pioneers like BDPA and NSBE, and grow with similarly aligned organizations like AfroTech and we aspire to learn from the successes of the Black Lives Matter, Me Too, Latinx, gay, lesbian, corporate diversity teams, employee resource groups, and other movements that bring equality.

However, membership in BUILT Forward is a privilege, and we accept the obligation to provide added value to our dues-paying members. We give them extra benefits, but most importantly, we provide them a vote with the right to information. Only members who abide by our bylaws may LEAD and serve in leadership positions at BUILT International. We believe in protecting our volunteers, leaders, and members.