While the tech industry and the MAGA base are locked in a fierce debate over H-1B visas, the Black community must recognize this moment as both a challenge and an opportunity. While these two powerful factions argue over immigration policies, we have a chance to focus on building economic power, advancing in tech careers, and positioning ourselves strategically for the future.
1. Understanding the Stakes
At its core, the H-1B visa debate highlights one truth: tech jobs remain some of the most lucrative and stable opportunities in our economy. The positions filled by H-1B workers are not just coding jobs—they span artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data science, and even leadership roles in tech corporations.
For the Black community, the debate serves as a signal: If we don’t intentionally prepare and position ourselves for these roles, others will fill them. The question isn’t just about foreign versus domestic labor—it’s about who has access to the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to succeed in tech.
2. Why the Black Community Has Been Historically Left Out of Tech
• Systemic Barriers: Lack of access to quality STEM education in many underfunded schools.
• Representation Gaps: A lack of visible Black role models in tech discourages young people from pursuing these careers.
• Economic Challenges: High costs of certifications, bootcamps, and tech degrees create additional roadblocks.
• Networking Barriers: Limited access to tech mentorships and professional networks keeps many out of the loop.
3. Action Plan: A Modern Black Panther Blueprint for Tech Empowerment
The Black Panther Party’s Ten-Point Program was about self-determination, empowerment, and building sustainable communities. Today, we can adapt that mindset to the tech industry. Here’s how:
Step 1: Identify the Most In-Demand Tech Careers
Focus on areas where H-1B workers are being hired the most. These fields represent gaps in domestic skills that we must fill:
• Software Engineering: Backend and frontend development, app development.
• Cybersecurity: Protecting networks, ethical hacking, and securing data.
• Cloud Computing: AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud certifications.
• Data Science & AI: Machine learning, predictive analytics, and big data management.
• Project Management (Tech-Focused): Agile methodologies, Scrum Master roles.
• User Experience (UX) & User Interface (UI) Design: Designing intuitive digital products.
Step 2: Education & Skill-Building
• Free and Low-Cost Resources:
• Coursera: Offers tech courses from top universities.
• Google Certifications: Entry-level programs in Data Analytics, IT Support, and more.
• Microsoft Learn: Free training on Azure and Microsoft technologies.
• FreeCodeCamp.org: Hands-on programming education.
• Udemy: Affordable courses on specific tech skills.
• Local Community Initiatives:
• Partner with organizations like Black Girls CODE, Code2040, and TechHire.
• Encourage local churches, community centers, and schools to host tech bootcamps.
• Apprenticeships & Internships:
• Many tech companies now offer paid apprenticeships specifically for underrepresented groups.
• Platforms like Apprenti and Year Up focus on training underserved communities for tech careers.
Step 3: Build Our Own Tech Networks
• Networking Groups: Join groups like AfroTech, Blacks in Technology (BIT), and National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).
• Local Meetups: Attend tech events and meetups in your city to build relationships with professionals.
• Create Accountability Groups: Form small groups in your community to study together, share resources, and hold each other accountable.
Step 4: Entrepreneurship in Tech
The tech industry isn’t just for employees—it’s a powerful space for entrepreneurs and innovators.
• Start Tech-Adjacent Businesses: Digital marketing, app development, cybersecurity consulting, or e-commerce support.
• Learn No-Code Platforms: Tools like Webflow, Wix, and Bubble.io make tech entrepreneurship more accessible.
• Capitalize on AI Tools: Use AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney to streamline business operations.
Step 5: Political & Community Advocacy
• Advocate for STEM Funding in Schools: Push local leaders to invest in STEM education in Black communities.
• Hold Tech Companies Accountable: Advocate for more inclusion, mentorship programs, and scholarships for Black students.
• Support Tech Policy Leaders: Elect officials who prioritize equitable access to technology careers and resources.
4. Build a Digital Freedom School
During the Civil Rights Movement, Freedom Schools educated communities about their rights and gave them tools for empowerment. Today, we need Digital Freedom Schools:
• Community centers hosting free coding workshops.
• Churches offering digital literacy programs.
• Online platforms dedicated to teaching tech skills specifically to Black youth and adults.
5. Closing Thoughts: The Time Is Now
While billionaires and political factions argue over who gets to fill these jobs, we must focus on positioning ourselves strategically. The digital economy isn’t coming—it’s here. And it is reshaping power, wealth, and opportunity in America.
Let this be our moment of clarity: The fight isn’t just about visas—it’s about who gets a seat at the table in the next chapter of technological progress.
We have the tools, the resilience, and the intelligence to thrive. Now, we need a collective commitment to educate, organize, and empower ourselves.
“We have nothing to lose but our chains—and everything to gain through knowledge, skill, and self-determination.”