Key Talking Points

When introducing Project Badging, keep your message simple and structured around the Why, What, and How.

Why It Matters

• Healthy open source projects are diverse, equitable, and welcoming.
• Sponsors, contributors, and partners look for visible signals of community health.
• Project Badging helps projects reflect honestly on DEI practices and demonstrate commitment.

What Project Badging Is

• A CHAOSS initiative that recognizes projects committed to DEI.
• Uses openly developed CHAOSS DEI metrics as benchmarks.
• Not a test or certification — it’s about self-reflection, learning, and visibility.
• Projects earn a badge they can display on their README, website, and documentation.

How It Works

• Review DEI practices using 4 CHAOSS DEI metrics: Project Access, Inclusive Leadership, Communication Transparency, and Newcomer Experience.
• Document reflections in a DEI.md file at the root of your repository using the template as a guide.
• Apply via the Project Badging website.
• The bot reviews your DEI.md. If successful, you receive a bronze badge.
• Re-apply annually to keep it current. Future levels (Silver, Gold, Platinum) will follow.