> Why were they there? Because they were invited! The only rational response is to turn down such an invitation in the future.
The Ada Initiative recommends[1] responding thusly:
* Respond saying that you'd be honored, but the panel seems awfully heavy on the men, and can they find a qualified woman to join the panel? Here are some suggestions.
* Respond saying that you have taken a pledge not to participate in all-male panels from now on, but you'd be happy to join if a qualified woman is added.
* If you can't accept, suggest a qualified woman to take your place.
[1] http://geekfeminism.wikia.com/wiki/Allies_training#Scenario:...