Telling Women's Lives

Women in Science

I found the profile on C. Megan Urry to be significant for several reasons. I thought her personal anecdotes were astonishing and powerful, however I found her contributions to reducing the amount of gender bias and harassment to be even more amazing. Affirmative action, though it may be a flawed system in some aspects, was designed to “level the playing field” in a sense. I think the implementation of the meeting ban goes about doing the same and a great way of raising awareness of sexual assault within the workplace. As Urry mentioned, “your career is in the hands of your adviser”. This fact alone discourages many women and men from speaking out when they are the victims of sexual assault. This is troubling and happens too often. So, to see Urry use her platform in such an effective way is encouraging and serves as a great example of what can be done not only within the field of science but in many male-dominated career fields.

Along the lines of discrimination, I also found the fact that minority women (and men) are at an even lower disadvantage in the field of science(mentioned in the Pollack article) to be startling. Recent films such as “Hidden Figures” highlights this disparity and inspires black girls/women to continue to pursue STEM careers despite the obstacles they may face. Also, organizations such as Black Girls Code go into middle schools, high schools, and communities that are majority minority and provide guidance and resources for black girls who aspire to become mathematicians, scientists, etc. I think this project is remarkable to say the least and more programs around the country should implement such opportunities.