Today is National Women’s Equality Day. Never mind that we share it with National Dog Day. There’s an unsavory bitch joke somewhere there. Frankly, I’m surprised I haven’t heard one yet. Look, I love my rescue dog, but we really can’t get any respect, can we?
There’s one simple thing that all of us can do to demonstrate respect to women all year long. It’s not even very hard, so pay attention.
I was in a meeting recently. There was an age 50-ish gentleman talking about working with a team of college students in a training program. He was animatedly describing how confident and eager the students are. His face was aglow as he regaled us with anecdotes about the four men and one girl in the program (his words, not mine). Four men. One girl. Did you catch that? The students are peers in this program, yet he spoke of the males as men and the sole female as a “girl.” If you don’t see how that’s utterly disrespectful and demeaning, you are contributing to the problem.
I’m asking you to not only steer away from this sexist language that diminishes women, but speak out when your colleagues say such things. Call them out. While it seems trite, it’s not. The language we choose and use speaks volumes. Words matter.
So today, on National Women’s Equality Day, I raise a glass to the women who boost my community, challenge me to be better, and light up the world with their smarts and sass. I share this easy-peasy cocktail recipe to celebrate those who lift your spirits.
Pimm’s Cup
- 2 parts Pimm’s
- 4 parts Mr. Q Cumber soda
- Wedge of lime
- Sprig of fresh mint
Add Pimm’s to a tall glass of ice. Top with Q Cumber soda. Squeeze in lime and add mint. Give it a stir. This drink promises to be refreshing.
A nod of respect to all that women have accomplished would be even more refreshing.
Thank you, Iliana – being offended by calling a woman, a “girl” may seem small and picky to some, but it signifies something larger. I had to speak with an older (late 60’s) client over the phone recently. He continually referred to the woman who worked with him as, “the little girl”. It was apparent to me that he wasn’t intending to insult her, rather he honestly thought of her this way because of her age. I hated that I couldn’t say anything to him directly, but as soon as I got off the phone, I made sure to relate the occurrence to my office mates. Funny thing is, I could tell that some of the men in my office had a hard time understanding why I was so flabbergasted that the client had said this! I do believe that it’s up to us as women to let everyone know our value and worth as equals. More importantly, it’s up to us to truly believe it ourselves.