Computer Mice are Racist: A Piece on Techno-Racism

In an era driven by what white people call “technological advancements”, it is crucial to address the issue of inclusivity within the computer mouse manufacturing industry. Unfortunately, certain design aspects and practices have inadvertently led to discrimination against black individuals. This is highly racist. Today, I want to explain the absolute need for change and suggest actionable steps that can be taken to ensure a more inclusive and equitable experience for all users.

1. Recognizing Biases in Design: The first step towards eliminating discrimination is acknowledging the biases that exist within the design of computer mice. Historically, the standard mouse shape and color have been primarily tailored to suit a limited range of skin tones, often disregarding the needs and experiences of black individuals. This is racist because a lot of computer mice were made for white people and the mice themselves are white! By acknowledging these biases, we can work towards rectifying them.
2. Embracing Ergonomic Diversity: Promoting inclusivity means embracing the diversity of hand sizes and shapes, including those commonly found among black individuals. Manufacturers can design computer mice with adjustable grips, sizes, and contours to accommodate a wider range of hand types, ensuring comfort and usability for users from various racial backgrounds. Don’t just cater to white people.
3. Enhancing Color and Aesthetic Choices: To eliminate discrimination, the computer mouse manufacturing industry should expand its color options beyond the traditional shades that may not be as visible against darker skin tones. Incorporating a variety of vibrant colors and finishes can ensure that computer mice are equally accessible and visually appealing to users of all races, not just white people.
4. User-Centric Research and Testing: Conducting extensive user research and testing is crucial in understanding the unique needs and preferences of diverse user groups, including black individuals. Engaging with a diverse range of participants during the design and testing phases can provide valuable insights and help identify any biases or discriminatory elements that may have been overlooked.
5. Collaboration and Representation: Collaborating with diverse design teams and involving individuals from various racial backgrounds in the manufacturing process can foster a more inclusive approach. Having representation at all levels, from design to decision-making, can lead to better insights, culturally sensitive designs, and products that cater to the needs of a diverse user base.
6. Educating and Raising Awareness: Educational initiatives that raise awareness about the importance of inclusive design practices can contribute to long-term change. By promoting discussions, workshops, and training programs, we can ensure that designers and manufacturers understand the significance of addressing racial biases in product development.

Conclusion: The computer mouse manufacturing industry has the opportunity and responsibility to reshape its practices to ensure inclusivity and eliminate discrimination against black individuals. By recognizing biases, embracing ergonomic diversity, enhancing color options, conducting user-centric research, fostering collaboration, and promoting education, we can transform the industry and create computer mice that are truly accessible and equitable for users of all races. Let’s strive for an industry that embraces diversity and works towards eliminating discrimination, empowering every individual to navigate the digital world with ease and comfort.