Tulsa, Oklahoma is working to reinvent itself as a technology hub. More than a century ago, the Greenwood District, previously known as Black Wall Street, was a bustling business center for African Americans until its tragic destruction in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Today, through concerted efforts by community leaders, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and corporate supporters, the city is fostering a tech ecosystem that embraces inclusion and digital equity as a way to create intergenerational wealth for its residents.
 
One such visionary leader is Tyrance Billingsley, who is actively working to bring this inclusive vision to life. Billingsley is the founder of Black Tech Street, and organization that is focused on reviving the spirit of Black Wall Street by creating a diverse and inclusive tech community in Tulsa. Through partnerships and collaborations, Black Tech Street is working create greater digital equity through a strong network of resources and support for underrepresented individuals in the tech industry.
 
The Tulsa Innovation Labs (TIL) is a key player in this mission. By partnering with local educational institutions and organizations, including Black Tech Street, TIL is developing initiatives to boost digital literacy and empower underrepresented communities. These initiatives include programs such as Tech Talent Pathways, which aims to build a diverse workforce in the region by training and placing individuals in high-demand tech jobs.
 
Another significant player is Holberton School Tulsa, a software engineering school that seeks to eliminate barriers to quality education. By offering a deferred tuition model and a comprehensive curriculum, Holberton School is creating opportunities for a diverse range of students to develop the skills needed for success in the tech industry.
 
HP's Teaching Fellows program is also contributing to the cause. The program equips educators with the skills and resources necessary to integrate technology into their teaching practices effectively. By collaborating with organizations like TIL, Holberton School, and Black Tech Street, HP's Teaching Fellows program is supporting the development of an inclusive tech ecosystem in Tulsa.
 
Under the guidance of leaders like Tyrance Billingsley and the collective efforts of the community, Tulsa's commitment to inclusion, digital equity, human rights, and diversity is paving the way for a diverse and inclusive tech landscape, ensuring a brighter future for all its residents.