So, how do we

[Maybo]

I have a question about the comma after "so". Is the comma optional?

As the globe becomes even more connected in a remote-work world, the ability for workers to be able to speak to each other effectively and respectfully is imperative. So, how do we end linguistic discrimination – and create a more inclusive, functional use of language to benefit native and non-native speakers alike?

(The pervasive problem of 'linguistic racism by Christine Ro)

 

[jutfrank]

It isn't a question of it being optional. You have to think about the writer's reasons for including it.

 

[Maybo]

It isn't a question of it being optional. You have to think about the writer's reasons for including it.

I think the "so" fits the following usage. But "So we are" has no comma, is it because of its sentence pattern are different from other's ?
Dictionary
3
— used in speech to introduce a statement or question

• So here we are.
  
• So, we meet at last!
  
• So, as I was saying, the car is used but in good condition.
  
• So, how did the test go?
  
  

 

[jutfrank]

In the original example, the word So is intended as a device to connect logically to what was said in the previous sentence. Words like this are what we call 'transitions', because they carry meaning from one sentence to the next. Other examples include:

Therefore, ...
Consequently, ...
As a result, ...
Given this, ...

In all of these examples, the comma represents a natural pause and falling intonation in speech, which helps the listener understand the function that the transition has.