Improving the retention of K-16 students with various identities in computing requires improving their non-technical classroom experiences through consistent and intentional efforts. This requires a greater focus on increasing the cultural competence of not just educators, but also students, especially those who don’t share these same identities. This presentation focuses on the importance of cultural competence in creating computing allies, advocates, and activists and how educators can create and maintain a culture where these are not only celebrated, encouraged, and...