Published on March 8, 2022
I was asked to consider writing a short piece for International Women’s Day and after thinking of some themes, setting some points down on a notepad and thinking on how to best structure the piece, it occurred to me that I do not think I am the right person as I don’t have the lived experience that many do.
In thinking about the piece, I looked online at other articles and I am still astounded not only by the lack of insight into debates on gender, employment, equity and equality, but then the temerity, typically from males, to challenge these views in such an aggressive, demeaning manner. There is such a gap in thinking, emotional intelligence and reflection from individuals who seem to be ignorant or blind to personal bias or unintended biases when it comes to many parts of our lives or maybe they are just bigoted. This is demonstrated in merit debates, which in fact the processes were developed by men, typically men make up the panels for selection, write the rules for employment contracts, and as research shows, typically pick people that look or operate just like them is not a consideration for the haters.
When I look at our systems of Government where their actions involve bullying, power, harassment, assaults, isolation and yelling, would in any other industry, have you sacked, I wonder what hope do we have of breaking through the noise to create an inclusive society where women are valued for everything they bring.
I thank individuals and groups of brave courageous women who have stood up to call these behaviours out, I support them and use their lived experience to reflect on my personal behaviour, my unconscious biases and hope I can contribute to an inclusive, equitable society, I will also actively engage in equity processes to support those who have been disadvantaged.
I will concentrate on the little things, e.g. stopping people talk over women at meetings, I will sponsor individuals where I can and call out boorish, bullying behaviour when I witness it, I will continue to carefully consider issues that are raised, debate respectively, listen and reflect.