Minority Women
One of my very close friends is married to the idea of women in leadership — and rightfully so. She recently attended the Take the Lead women’s empowerment conference sponsored by the business school.
The conference was based on the emerging force women have propelled into the business world. My friend listened to speakers who work for Under Armour, Bechtel, AT&T and others. I was enthralled by the motivation these speakers ignited in her, but what we both couldn’t quite comprehend was why none of these extraordinary women had been a woman of color.
I understand it was not their fault, but it was an obvious oversight that a room full of successful young women, brought together to note that men are not the only ones who can achieve success, could not also demonstrate that success is not limited to white people.
As a nation promised equal opportunity, we cannot express to women of color that they aren’t yet of the same caliber as not only men, but white men and women, too. Instead, it is the duty of business heads, teachers, family and friends to instill the notion that women of color mustn’t just dream far beyond their reach, because belief in themselves is not enough on its own to turn a dream into reality.
There cannot be a gap based on gender, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation, for when there is, the world will continue to know suffering and inequality.
To my fellow minority women and women of color: Can we vow to become far greater than anyone’s preconceived notions, not only to prove those notions wrong but to prove ourselves right and capable?
Jasmine Palaez is a freshman journalism major. She can be reached at jasmine_palaez@yahoo.com.
