HISTORY/FAQ

What is Linuxchix, anyway?

LinuxChix is an online Linux community founded by Deb Richardson.

Deb is a Canadian who works for Linuxcare; she started the group in March of 1999 to give women a less intimidating community to learn Linux. You can learn more about the international organization at http://www.linuxchix.org.

In her own words:

"I started LinuxChix as an attempt to create a more hospitable community in which people can discuss Linux, a community that encourages participation, that doesn't allow the quieter among us to be drowned out by the vocal minority... To give women who use Linux a comfortable environment in which to discuss the OS they love; to create a community that encourages and helps new users; to make others realize that the vocal minority does not necessarily represent the Linux community in general."

What is Seattle Linux Chix?

Seattle LinuxChix is the Seattle regional chapter of LinuxChix.org.

Who is leading the Seattle chapter?

Meryll Larkin, whose other passions include Perl programming and Web development has been leading our local chapter since September, 2002.

Who founded the Seattle chapter?

The Seattle chapter was founded in July 2000 by Betsy Aoki, whose other claim to fame is that she also started the Seattle chapter of Webgrrls (which grew to be over 3,000 women).  Ironically, it happened almost the exact same way...she went to the LinuxChix site expecting to attend an existing chapter and then was told the only way to get a chapter was to start one.  Betsy has started learning Linux from ground zero, so the chapter is indeed newbie-friendly.

Do I have to wear a ponytail like the logo?

No.  Our members have many different styles of hair and body...  and we enjoy the diversity.

Patt Cranage, who is both an artist and a SeattleLinuxChix member, reworked the original logo by Val Henson.  It carries the art equivalent of a GPL (General Public License).  "Do whatever you want with it, including printing it on t-shirts and selling them, just let other people also do whatever they want with it."

I don't live in Seattle, what do I do?

Well, there are tons of other Linuxchix chapters to join, or, you could be so lucky as to start your own!  A list of the regional chapters (and info on how to start your own) is available on this page.

How do I join Linuxchix, and is there a special requirement for this chapter?

All membership questions are answered here. It's pretty informal as no one has time for bureaucracy.

Do I have to be female to join?

No, you don't...although you need to keep in mind that this group is for women to feel safe learning the technology, and as much as we value your input, if you are not female, the show can't be about you. 

If you want to be a Seattle LinuxLad and help out with the chapter, you may follow our normal membership procedure, or if you would like to assist without joining, contact us.