Women who have broken the glass ceiling

Women have always been subjugated to men. They have always been suppressed and made unequal to their male counterparts. They have been subdued by social norms and traditions. But let us ask a simple question:

Where does this gender gap start?

Gender gap refers to the differences in opinions or attitudes in men and women concerning different and variety of issues of public and private parties or programs. Till the 1980’s men and women have been more likely than men to support the Democratic and Liberal policies.

What is the glass ceiling effect?

It refers to the invisible barriers that keeps some people from advancing in the place. In theory, any qualified person can rise in the ranks at works and enjoy the perks that come with that.

But those invisible barriers persists. Many leaders may or not be aware about their own biases related to culture and race. It is a subtle form of discrimination.

Even women face this issue. The glass ceiling keeps people from getting certain jobs, inspite of being well qualified and deserving, it affects career trajectory status and lifetime earning potential.

The effects of the glass ceiling on women and minorities

The realities of the workplace has a direct effect on people’s health and well being. A stalled career and inability to gain a higher income can leave you with a bundle of mixed feelings like:

· Self doubt

· A sense of isolation

· Resentment

· Anger

Stress

In a 2019 study, it revealed that the glass ceiling has a direct impact on the stress levels of female employees.

Chronic stress is known to affect the immune, digestive and cardiovascular symptoms.

Symptoms of long term stress may include

· Irritability

· Anger

· Sadness

· Sleep problems

· Headaches

Women who have broken the glass ceiling

Women have faced several barriers. Here are a few women who have broken the glass ceiling:

a) Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin

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Find out what it means to me

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The 60’s pop singer Aretha Franklin, commanding respect over her fans through her soulful voice. She made a benchmark of being the first female to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. A true icon.

2.Junko Taibei

She is a Japanese Mountaineer. Tabei became the first women to and climb Mount Everest. She is also the first to climb the highest peaks of all the seven continents.

3. Jennifer Lee

The Cheif Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, she is best known as the writer and director of Frozen and Frozen 2, which earned her an Academic Award For Best Animated Feature.

Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama, the first lady from 2009–2016 was recently induced to the National Women’s hall of fame. This ws announced on 8th March 2021 on the account of Women’s Day. She will join seven others in the ceremony in October

Akshinta Das

Fergusson College Pune