Techni-color….Technology in color

I really enjoyed NECC.  I have never been to a conference that was so Huge…with so much to learn!  But, well…it had its setbacks.  We live in a multi-cultural society.  I am an African-American woman working in an area of technology that is dominated by white men and women.  Sure there were some other African-Americans there, but not a whole lot.  I felt a little lost and alone at NECC.  I was talked over and ignored at the poster sessions.  People treated me as though I had nothing to offer.  I was watching a presentation, and one woman walked right in front of me as though I were not even there, then she started asking questions as though I were invisible.  I went to an activity with Discovery, and felt alone there as well.  The people were nice, but no one would really talk to me.  I am not a leper, I am friendly, I am approachable, so whats missing?  I am not the most agressive person, but as people were talking in their circles, all backs seemed to be to me, and I was by myself in a sea of educators who have the same interests in technology as I do.  Why?  Networking is important.  I want to know what other educators are doing in other places, and share the successes and failures my district experiences as well.  I found that when I tried to become a part of a conversation, no one would make eye contact with me, or talk to me directly for that matter.  I am glad that I knew a couple of people there, otherwise my trip would have just been a lonely one.  Perhaps it’s because I’m shy….or because I’m short….maybe..maybe because I smile too too much…hmmm….I would love to know what other people think!