Women's Day 2020
A WORD FROM AF ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
I have experienced both sides of being a woman in the workplace. I have been out-numbered, belittled, talked down to, ignored, and appointed to roles that were not a requirement of my position. (Sandwich runs? Really?) What could have been a beneficial opportunity for collaborative innovation and growth in my strengths ended up being a stifling two years of my career. However, I learned how to stand up for my worth.
When I finally quit, I went on to experience the complete opposite side of the coin at a company that is women-run, inclusive, receptive of a person’s potential, and active in building employees up. My current situation should not be an anomaly. It should be the standard.
If you’re reading this, whether you identify as a woman, man, both, or neither, I ask that you keep an open mind. Keep working to understand what discrimination is. Learning and acceptance is a catalyst for growth, change, and peace. No one person deserves less than another. We need to stand up for ourselves and each other as equals. Imagine the significant societal development that has already been achieved and what can be achieved when we set aside differences and focus on moving forward as one.
International Women’s Day reminds me to never stop using my voice and joining with others to keep the conversation of equality alive. It reminds me to celebrate the strong women and people that have fought, and continue to fight, for basic human rights and respect. It refuels my power to stand up in the face of so many that refuse balance, and keep holding the hands of others that have the same mission. Whether it’s in the workplace, school, or the public, we all have that power to make a difference by holding people and ourselves accountable and including everyone in the conversation of inclusivity.
A final reminder to all women-identifying beings: you are worthy, you are heard, and you are not alone. Together, we are empowered. Support one another. Know your worth. Don’t be afraid to ask for support when you need it. We are all deserving of equality and we can achieve it.
A reminder to those that aren’t: Listen. Learn. Accept.
|
|
Author bio:
Lianna Wehrung is the Public Relations Coordinator of Arctic Fox Hair Color, the trendsetting vegan and cruelty-free hair color and care innovator dedicated to preventing animal cruelty. She is a blogger, yogi, animal lover, and Harry Potter nerd. She likes to write about new trends, work culture, manifestation inspiration, and activism.
Back to Top