Women Shatter the Glass Ceiling

By Alex Aguilar

There’s been a recognizable shift in the past half century as women moved into the workforce. Although much progress has been made, there still is a need for more. Women’s History Month highlighted this.

In the past many women stayed in the home. Things started to change during WWII when men went to war and women went to work.

The picture of Rosie the Riveter was an influential image in the 1940s. She represented the new working woman: tough, strong and capable.

“Rosie the Riveter reminds me of the role women played in society and how there has been a historical shift since then,” said Maria Marinch, executive director of community relations, diversity and multicultural affairs. “Images like Rosie and months that celebrate minorities, such as Women’s History Month, highlight the importance to recognize these individuals.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2014 report, 46.9 percent of women are employed. More than half of those women work in management, professional and related industries. Women take on other roles, as well, in sales, office, computers, IT, medical, education among other fields. The report showed that women are working cross industry and many are climbing to higher-level positions.

A good example of this is Marinch. She leads a department at CSN. She works to elevate respect for diversity in our community here on campus.

“I’m very comfortable and happy being a woman,” Marinch said. “I have strong female figures around me and society that recognizes the important role women play.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2014 current population survey, women are earning more bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees than men. This is a major shift from the past.

Even with advancements some women still experience the glass ceiling.

According to Mind Tools, a company who has helped 21 million people with career skills and employment, “Traditionally the glass ceiling was a concept applied to women and some minorities… no matter how qualified or experienced, they simply were not given opportunities to further advance their careers.”

To bring awareness to issues women face, many events were held for Women’s History Month in March. The Women of Influence Awards, Votes for Women and Solving Racism “The Role of Women as Peace Makers” were held on campus.

“I plan on breaking those stereotypes just to show people that women can do anything a man can do,” said Elizabeth Rojo, CSN student. She thinks Women’s History Month is important to remind people of the accomplishments of women.

“With having a month dedicated for women, people are at least being exposed to missing parts of the puzzle,” said Linda Foreman, professor of human behavior at CSN.