Black caucus brings diversity push to Silicon Valley

Members of the Congressional Black Caucus are flying to Silicon Valley to press the nation’s biggest technology companies to hire more African-American workers — a sign that the industry’s well-documented diversity problems are starting to generate new political heat in Washington.

It’s an increasingly awkward topic for a tech industry that’s dependent on DC for action on an array of priorities, including immigration, tax and patent reform, yet whose workforce doesn’t look like the rest of America. “My district is right next to Silicon Valley, and for years and years and years, my constituents have been part of those who have not had access to these opportunities, even the ones who have the qualifications, background and skills,” said Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), who’s helping to lead the black caucus’ tour. “We always say diversity is good for business, and the tech industry is beginning to understand that,” she said