In recent months, we’re reminded of the deeply entrenched racial divide in this country after the tragic loss of more members of our Black community, including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. The widespread protests and civil unrest that have followed tell the story of a country that’s grieving and in search of a path forward. At iPhone Life, we are committed to fighting racial injustice and bias within policing, the tech world, and society as a whole. While large-scale action is needed to address the problem of systemic racism, we are also committed to taking personal action to support racial equality.
To that end, we’re donating to organizations including Black Lives Matter, the ACLU, Code2040, and more. We’re examining our own company culture to make sure it is inclusive and free of bias. And more than ever, we’re committed to serving a diverse community of Apple users.
To Read: Apps by Black Developers, Diversity in Tech & Social Justice
As a news publication, we are putting a renewed effort into lifting up the voices of under-supported Black-owned tech companies and app developers. In the coming months, As an editorial team, we will be featuring the brilliant work of Black innovators in tech and seeking out contributions from a more diverse group of writers for each magazine issue. Are you a tech enthusiast who’s part of a minority community? Reach out to us at editors@iphonelife.com to inquire about writing opportunities. We look forward to hearing from you.
In the meantime, here are some articles for you to enjoy, including a roundup of apps by Black developers from the latest issue of iPhone Life magazine and a conversation with the founder of Code.org on the diversity gap in tech.
5 Free iPhone Apps to Support People of Color in Your Community
If you’re wondering what the best way to show support for people of color in your community is, check out Writer & Video Editor Nicholas Naioti's selection of apps that help you promote equality in your community.
Apps by Black Creators
From self care to social justice, Staff Writer Amy Spitzfaden-Both features ten innovative apps created by Black app developers.
Crack the Code: Closing the Diversity Gap by Teaching Girls & Students of Color Computer Science
The field of computer science is brimming with opportunity, and yet women and minorities fill a disproportionately small number of these positions. Check out my conversation with Code.org cofounder Hadi Partovi on the importance of closing the diversity gap in tech.
The iPhone’s Role in Citizen Journalism
More than five years ago, I wrote a piece about how citizens are holding the police force accountable using their smartphones. Unfortunately, this article is still just as relevant today. “Video is some of the most powerful evidence you can have,” said criminal defense attorney Peter Berlin. After the recent tragic deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor at the hands of the police, the role of citizen journalism is more important than ever.
To Watch: Systemic Racism Explained
Our former Editor in Chief Alex Cequea went on to found an activist media company called act.tv. Alex made a 5-minute video about systemic racism that has gone viral in recent months. If you’re looking for a simple explanation of the mechanics of system racism, check it out.
Let's Stand Together
We invite you to join us in taking a stand against systemic racism, addressing the racial inequalities upon which this country was founded, and supporting Black-owned businesses and tech ventures today. Thank you for being a part of the iPhone Life community.
