Leading with Purpose: a (Wo)manifesto
Because the patriarchy isn’t going to fix itself.
Part 1
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again.
Women are told countless inaccuracies throughout our lives and careers.¹ (footnotes with links listed below) We have heard it all.²
“You can’t say that. Don’t wear that. You need to relax. Don’t try so hard. Don’t be so buttoned up. Lighten up. It’s just a joke. Stop being so intimidating.”
“Is she sure that’s what happened? Is there really a problem with pay or is it that she’s less qualified? She can’t have it all. She should focus on her family.”
We fight against power dynamics that have pervaded workplaces, homes, and schools for decades. We nod in collective fear and forgiveness, solitude and sisterhood, sadness and solidarity, hope and disgust, frustration and compassion. We read each other’s stories, hear each other’s words, hold space and witness.
Yet, we persist.³ We come back again and again and again.⁴
We tell you what we need to succeed.⁵ We tell facts and beg that you believe us⁶. We lean in.⁷ We march.⁸ We vote.⁹ We organize.¹⁰ We joke.¹¹ and sing.¹² We seek out mentors.¹³ We occasionally say “I told you so,”¹⁴ because, well…
