Gender Biases in the Workplace: Personal Experiences and Global Perspectives

Sex, not gender, is a real and immutable fact. However, sex discrimination is a harsh reality. The misconception that gender is a reason for discrimination has become a pervasive narrative in recent years, often misused to justify the frustrations or actions of individuals. This paper delves into personal experiences and global perspectives on gender biases and workplace discrimination, debunking the myth of gender as a valid reason for discrimination.

Personal Experiences and Challenges

I was born in the 1960s, a time when the concept of STEM education and opportunities being reserved for boys was prevalent. Despite the societal biases I faced, I managed to overcome them and carve out a successful career path.

For instance, I played hockey as the only girl on a 16-team league, joined a boys-only physics club, and attended a university engineering program, where I was the sole female for the first two years. These experiences not only challenged the status quo but also inadvertently exposed me to various forms of discrimination and exclusion. For example, I was denied membership in a boys' scouting group and a church youth deacon opportunity because of my gender. However, my gender did more to open doors than close them. It allowed me to prove my capabilities and score equal opportunities in a male-dominated field.

Global Perspectives on Gender Roles

My current engagement with individuals from various African and Middle Eastern countries has provided a broader perspective on gender roles. Their views on gender can be starkly different from mine. While most do not force their beliefs on others, there are enough instances where their beliefs impact the work environment.

My female coworkers and I have faced numerous instances of shaming and discrimination at work. We have been told to shut up and learn respect, and some of us were discouraged from pursuing certain career paths. My close colleague was even told that studying IT was a man’s job. Another coworker from Ukraine had to endure both sexist and racist remarks from a Pakistani colleague who was a Putin fanboy. These incidents have led to various forms of verbal and sometimes even physical harassment. As we ascend the professional ladder, the instances of harassment increase, demonstrating that these men do not favor working under women, but they often lack the competence necessary for higher-level positions.

Addressing and Reporting Gender Biases

The reporting of these incidents often gets brushed aside, not being considered urgent enough for effective action. However, the fact that a Putin fanboy recently faced termination for his deeds is a hopeful sign. Another positive development has been the strengthening of camaraderie among women at work, with these experiences bringing us closer together and providing valuable insights into global social dynamics.

Conclusion

While gender may be a misused term in discussions about discrimination, sex is an undeniable reality. The experiences I and my colleagues have faced highlight the pervasive nature of sex discrimination in the workplace. These stories remind us that the fight against discriminatory practices is ongoing, and it requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment.