I don't know you are how long you have been with Debian or what your contributions are, but are you sure that this lack of confidence isn't due to inexperience?
I've been using debian increasingly for about 4-5 years now, and have used it almost exclusively for the last couple. I don't think I'm especially inexperienced. On the other hand the battle I'm currently having in installing it onto my new laptop might suggest otherwise ;) I observe that a number of people have commented on this thread suggesting that one shouldn't really feel worried/intimidated/nervous about dealing with the debian people because a) it's hard at first for everyone (I am sure it is) b) if you're going to worry about that you're pathetic anyway (well I disagree with that personally, but it takes all kinds...) I am more interested in the comments that suggest either first or (mainly) secondhand (people's female partners and/or friends) that other women have this experience, and that there is, as a result, a genuine "hidden" discrimination against the average woman, that could be part of why there are so few female debian developers (how many are there anyway - does anyone know?) By "hidden" discrimination, I mean that although anyone who demonstrates suitable skills and inclination can be accepted as a new developer, some (many?) women with suitable skill and the appropriate interest believe they will have a difficult time dealing with the hostile/scary/condescending guys, who will greatly outnumber them. So they don't apply to become a developer, so the situation doesn't change. Note that this situation existing doesn't mean that there necessarily are hostile/scary/condescending guys about, and it isn't the fault of anyone in particular. Blame it on our societies, if you like, or on our biology, or whatever theory you subscribe to :) But the situation existing does mean that if people want to do something about it, saying "well I treat everyone the same" may not mean very much, because you are treating everyone the same in a situation that inherently, for reasons beyond your control, favours one group of people (men) over another group (women). In that situation, if you want things to change, you may have to consider altering your tactics somewhat. I suggest that being aware that the problem exists is a good start :) Helen.
