"I'm a programmer because I can code, and at the end of the day, that's all that really matters." That is so patently untrue it's not even funny. If that were

"I'm a programmer because I can code, and at the end of the day, that's all that really matters." That is so patently untrue it's not even funny. If that were the case, then we wouldn't even be having conversations about agism, sexism, racism, lack of diversity, etc. "I've always considered rejection for any reason a self solving problem: if you're too stupid to accept me (whether you're in Silicon Valley or not), then I would have never wanted to work with you anyway. I'll find someone else who understands the value I produce and can provide the environment in which I can thrive." That's of cold comfort to someone looking for a job, and constantly being rejected because the employers are "too stupid". "Life is unfair, especially in Silicon Valley" So? So we should continue with it being unfair? Or should we be trying to make it more fair? That argument, to me, is the argument of someone who's either benefiting from the status quo, or just wants to make themselves sound better. "It doesn't matter who you are, where you're at, what you're like, what you have, or who you're with." Again, this entire thread is about the fact that it is just that.