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Hi ala,
I was going to write about the highlight of my week…getting new vacuum cleaner filters. Who knew my vacuum had three different filters? Not me.
Took a while to figure out where the new filter fit and then vroommmm, my vacuum was powerful again!
This amusing little anecdote would have concluded with an object lesson for speakers and event organizers. Trust me, I saw a connection.
But then, the federal government decided to sue a Coco-Cola distributor for alleged sex discrimination over a 2024 woman’s event. (Disclosure: I am not a lawyer. I try to stay out of political discussions, until I don't. And I know nothing about this particular event and the lawsuit except what I read in the news.)
In December last year, the head of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) encouraged white men to file a claim if they felt they had been discriminated against at work because of their race or sex. “You may have a claim to recover money under federal civil rights laws.”
Here are some things to think about. Discuss amongst yourselves:
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The EEOC was created by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Its mission is to prevent and remedy unlawful employment discrimination and advance equal opportunity for all in the workplace.
- Traditionally, women’s events focus on career advancement, training, mentorship, and networking.
- Only 6-7% of the Global Fortune 500 have women CEOs. Women are underrepresented in the C-suite, making up about 28% of C-level roles. Women usually get paid less, earning about 83 cents for every dollar men make.
In other words, it sounds like the EEOC just sued an employer for supporting their mission.
So, what do we need to know/do?
- Don’t let fear stop your progress.
- Be smart and safe. Make your events open to all and clear about their purpose.
- Stay focused on building skills, visibility, and supportive networks.
Because the need hasn’t disappeared. Women (and other groups) are still underrepresented on stages and in leadership. Events that build skills and connections are part of fixing that.
And remember, just like my vacuum, sometimes things suck and sometimes they don't.
Bobbie and the entire Innovation Women team
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