Cis Gender Equality - buzz words? There is a lot in the news, but how does it relate to the veterinary profession, and do we care? My care admittedly comes from a somewhat selfish place - I have a daughter.
Feminism should not be an unpopular word, with uncomfortable, man-hating connotations. I also have a son and I am privileged to know some of the best men. It probably wouldn't be an issue if I didn't know in my deepest heart that I have been disadvantaged as a women at various stages of my career, starting at university. Not all women feel this way, but maybe we should listen to the many (millions) who do. Strength however, comes from looking forwards. I have discussed the veterinary statistics in relation to gender equality and there is more to be researched. Given 80% of the profession is female, I honestly believe that if we don't start to face the issue head-on, we will lose more excellent women to other more forward-thinking professions. The rate of female attrition is already higher than for men ... a lot higher. How can we help excellent, high-achieving women to naturally progress in their veterinary careers? Well, I don't profess to be an expert, but it may surprise you to know that I have a few thoughts (ok, it doesn't surprise you). I actually performed a quick survey on what the barriers were to female entry into a surgical career. There were 256 responses. The top reason cited was 'surgical residencies are typically offered at a similar time to wanting a family', the second top reason was 'The culture or perceived culture within surgical departments scares women', the third 'there is a lack of female role models'. At the very bottom of the list, with 4 votes was 'women are less interested in surgery than other aspects of veterinary medicine'. (Why is this interesting - because it is a commonly cited reason in human and veterinary medicine for why there is an overwhelming discrepancy between female and male surgeons, especially given the graduating percentage of females). If we asked females about management roles (this will become even more important with the corporatisation of the veterinary industry - it is happening), I wonder if we would get a similar response with 'women are less interested in management roles' at the bottom of the list. Please do not mis-interpret these statements to imply there are no female surgeons or managers. There are amazing female surgeons and managers - there are just proportionately less. I care about this issue, for the sake of my daughter, but everyone needs to be involved if it is an issue we genuinely want to tackle. Let me reiterate this (partly because it was a line in Emma Watsons speech to the UN regarding gender equality and she is cooler than me) - "We want to end gender inequality, and to do this, we need everyone involved" Emma Watson. An add was published by a specialist referral hospital saying 'would not suit someone who plans to take periods off for parenting'. It was subsequently retracted, but is it what some of our leaders are 'really' thinking? subconscious bias? conscious bias? I challenge practices to advertise leadership and residency positions that would 'suit someone willing to juggle parenting with career progression' 'this position is available part-time'. Let's advertise positions that may be attractive to all genders. You might find someone incredible.
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