Inclusivity, it seems
Whether it is because of the specific industry that a CoEorking space is geared to or it’s actually built into the soul of the space or maybe it is just a fluke and it how the cards landed. It does seem that there is very little inclusiveness within the CoWorking industry.
This post is based on an article I found the other day, “The New Wave Of Co-Working Is Black-Owned, Inclusive And Serving The Underserved” and I thought it was interesting and thought provoking.
Does the Lehigh Valley have this issue?
Well I surely can not answer for all of the spaces of the Lehigh Valley, which numbers around 16 spaces and growing. But, I have worked at two spaces, one as a member and the other as a frequent guest and they are SoBeCoWorks in Bethlehem and Velocity in Allentown. What I can say about both of these spaces is that they are very inclusive.
Who’s there?
Between the two spaces I had seen different races and sexual preferences and not a single eye was batted.
Both spaces were respectful of everyone who was there and there seemed to be no ill will of any kind towards anyone.
Do we need this here?
Yes. I strongly do believe that we need more inclusive spaces simply based on the fact that someones genetic make up has no relevance as to whether or not they will be a good fit within a space.
Now granted, there are some industries that are dominated by certain groups of people and that could be a reason why there are only women or black males but, as with anything, there are always the outliers who break the mold. An example may be the dominance of gay men in the fashion world. Well, it may shock you to find out that there are plenty of straight men in that industry as well.
Are you open?
So, if you have a space and someone who does not fit your mold shows up, welcome them with open arms…you may learn something that you didn’t know before.
