Stereotyping is WRONG
Being a child of Generation Y and growing up with so much diversity has led me to believe that stereotyping, gender discrimination, etc., were problems of the past and didn't pertain to anyone I interacted with on a daily basis. I sometimes will continue to be optimistic and truly believe all people are color, race, and gender blind.
Boy, did I have a slap in the face and a reality check. As a working girl in a young company, I was blessed to not really have to deal with glass ceilings or stereotyping but it doesn't mean it is still out there and sadly, people still stereotype gender.
Recently, during a evening after work, I joined a couple people out for drinks at a swanky little bar in downtown Chicago. Among this bar were people of all types, ages, etc. After being introduced to someone, the individual I had just met invited the few people I was with to an upcoming event. While telling them about the event it was also mentioned to "bring the pretty little assistant (yes, apparently that was me) along." I was mortified.
I kept my mouth shut though and quietly sipped my martini with a bemused look on my face, appalled but didn't think it was worth my time to even correct the person. The sad thing was, it wasn't the last comment that was made. Sometime afterward, I was referenced to be liked more if I was blonde, instead of a brunette. Trust me ladies, I know....
Part of me wanted to throw my drink at that person but I kept my cool and just smirked knowing, I know who I am, what I am capable of and that this person obviously has some issues. Do I wish I would have said something? Of course. But if anything, that evening really put some perspective into things.
Know who you are and what you can do. Be confident, constructive and don't let anyone judge you based on what you look like. That will get you to the top no matter if you work in an office, have dreams to travel, or have a family with dignity and grace.
And that, is my two cents.
Rachelle Hansen
Reader Comments (1)
I am sorry that you had to experience that. It is unfortunate that those situation still happen.