On this International Women's Day, I want to highlight the importance of honoring the diverse experiences of women in the workplace and share my own experience over the past decade. We've made progress, but we still have a long way to go and I can personally attest to that. Women make up nearly half of the workforce, but only 7.4% of Fortune 500 companies have female CEOs. Women are also more likely to experience gender discrimination and sexual harassment at work, with 42% of women reporting experiencing gender discrimination and 81% reporting experiencing sexual harassment.
Even among women, those who display more feminine or masculine traits may face unique challenges in the workplace. A study conducted by Catalyst found that women who display feminine traits, such as being nurturing and empathetic, are often perceived as being less competent and are less likely to be promoted.
On the other hand, more androgynous or masculine women may also face discrimination and challenges in the workplace. A study by the University of Surrey found that women who display more masculine traits, such as being competitive and dominant, are often perceived as being less likable and less socially skilled.
Queer women also face obstacles in the workplace. According to a report by the Human Rights Campaign, 46% of LGBTQ employees in the US are not out at work, with many fearing discrimination and negative consequences for their career. This can lead to feelings of isolation and invisibility in the workplace.
Women of color also experience significant challenges in corporate America. They are more likely to experience discrimination and harassment at work and are underrepresented in leadership positions, with just 4% of C-suite positions being held by women of color, a study by LeanIn.Org and McKinsey & Company found.
As an LGBTQ woman of color, I've always felt like I had to work harder than anyone else to prove my worth in the workplace. And when I became a senior leader, that feeling only intensified. Despite working my way up the ladder, receiving top marks on all performance reviews, and having metrics to back up my accomplishments, I was still constantly sized up by my peers, both male and female.
I know that many women, regardless of their background or identity, have had similar experiences in the workplace. That's why it's so important for us to remind each other that we're all on the same team. Together, we can create a more equitable and supportive work environment for everyone.It's not easy, but it's necessary if we want to break down the barriers and create a more equitable workplace for all.
So on this International Women's Day, let's honor the diverse experiences of women and work towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. As Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie famously said, "We should all be feminists." Let's live that truth and create a better future for ourselves and the generations of women who will come after us.
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