Proposal for new WG, Request for TAC Consideration and approval - DEI WG

[camaleon2016]

Esteemed TAC, please read the following in proposal for approval of a new OpenSSF DEI WG. Your consideration and vote is appreciated.

The Problem

The cybersecurity landscape faces significant challenges due to growing threats within the ecosystem. A critical factor in addressing these challenges is cultivating the next generation of practitioners who can bring a diverse array of thoughts and experiences to the table. The underrepresentation in the cybersecurity workforce indicates a glaring gap, one that necessitates active intervention and initiatives to foster Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Establishing the OpenSSF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Working Group will enable us to better address these issues, increase representation, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of the cybersecurity workforce. Through a focus on education, mentorship, outreach, partnerships, and advocacy, this working group will not only boost diversity in cybersecurity but also empower and uplift those from underrepresented communities.

“This strategy will take a comprehensive and coordinated approach to expanding the national cyber workforce, improving its diversity, and increasing access to cyber educational and training pathways.”

• US Cybersecurity Strategy (section 4.6)

The following is a breakdown of potential SIGs or relative areas of focus for the proposed DEI WG as part of the overall OpenSSF commitment:

OpenSSF Commitment to DEI:

The OpenSSF has established a DEI initiative that aims to increase representation and strengthen the overall effectiveness of the cybersecurity workforce.

The focus areas (potential SIGs) include:
Education: Offer knowledge and training for underrepresented groups.
Mentorship Programs: Guidance and support for newcomers.
Outreach Initiatives: Engage directly with diverse communities.
Partnerships: Collaborate with other organizations to amplify DEI efforts.
Advocacy: Champion DEI principles and best practices.
Empower & Uplift: Support and elevate individuals from underrepresented communities.

[SecurityCRob]

The TAC will discuss this on 28Nov2023. Thanks for putting this together.

[SecurityCRob]

Per our WG Lifecycle: https://github.com/ossf/tac/blob/main/process/working-group-lifecycle.md

We're looking to have the following to become Sandbox:

1.) Proposal of scope for review by TAC
This is to help ensure limited overlap with existing WGs
2.) Have at least 3 interested individuals from different organizations supporting the proposal
3.) TAC will vote to approve or provide constructive guidance

and then Once Sandbox:

1.) The TAC will add the WG to the list of WGs to its README.
2.) If the WG has meetings at this stage:
They should appear on the OpenSSF calendar
The WG should have a document with upcoming agendas and notes from past meetings
3.) The WG should develop a charter or mission statement defining its goals and seek a TAC sponsor.

Unless someone else is interested (and patches are ALWAYS welcome!) I am glad to be the sponsor for this proposed WG.

[SecurityCRob]

On 28Nov2023 all seven members of the TAC voted unanimously to support the create of the new DEI WG. Congratulations!