Friday, November 2, 2018

Google Walks for Women

Image result for google protest
NPR.org/Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty Images


   Around the globe, Google employees walked out of their offices in protest of the company's mistreatment of women. Reasons for the protest were not solely based on sexual misconduct, but unequal pay and opportunities for their female workers. Richard DeVaul, a director of a parent company associated with Google, resigned in late October after he made advances on a woman he interviewed. 

   The walkouts were based on 5 major points shown above, which employees demanded to be implemented (npr.org). Arguably the most popular search engine and one of the most successful companies on the planet, Google is the standard for Internet users. Women who climb the corporate ladder are not the only ones facing sexism and discrimination. Female office workers are often belittled and "asked to take notes" during meetings about stereotypical male activities, even if they hold a leadership position. The aforementioned article discusses Nicole, who was interrupted by male clients during meetings about college football. The field of sports is typically associated with men, however, when a woman is involved, they may feel challenged by their male coworkers about their knowledge of topics discussed. Older women in the workplace may also contribute to sexism, as they observe their younger counterparts who are assumed to begin their own families. 

   Major companies like Google will hopefully raise more awareness of women in the workplace and how they seek equality, not superiority, with their fellow male employees.