Some black and Latino tech workers thought Jackson was out of touch because he implied that corporate racism was endemic in the industry. But for many, it also struck a nerve. But Calderon and other Latinos and blacks in the industry agreed with Jesse Jackson's opinion that a key solution is more educational opportunities for minorities. The high-tech disparity will continue until minority students are offered better math and science courses, she said. Still, Luquis and other Latinos said they thought that valley firms could do a better job recruiting Latinos and blacks.
Workers say the tension is especially pronounced between engineers from India and mainland China.
Some Chinese immigrants say they resent their Indian counterparts because, having spoken English since grade school, the Indians have a major advantage for advancement. He asked that his name not be used, saying it would hurt him in his largely Indian work group. Many Indian engineers say they sense the resentment and feel uncomfortable. Others shrug it off. We share ethnic food.