Our Shared Shelf discussion

Hi everybody!

I think it would be safe to assume that everybody here shares feminist and gender equality principles. However, it's not enough to share them -- we need to be able to act according to them. Are you always capable of it? What causes the most problems for you when it comes to real life? How do you overcome it?

For example, I failed when on my new job where my HR told that I shouldn't wear short skirts/shorts because it creates difficulties for our men and they don't know where to look. I had a contract which stated that we don't have dresscode and are allowed to wear whatever we want. It was a hot summer, ~+40°C. Now I believe that the right answer was something like "They can look at my face or at the monitors! We're software engineers, that's where we look here!", but back then I was new to the country, it was my first job and I didn't have enough courage. And by the time passed, some other issues began to appear. Finally, I understood that I would be much happier working somewhere else. The main lesson I learned was that even when you're in some fragile situation you should take informed decisions, avoid closing your eyes on things you disagree and keep your dignity. Also, now I know that dealing with situations of uncertainty is my weak point and try to work on it. Reading "My Life on the Road" helps, by the way:)

Hi Anna. It can be difficult when to take a stand when to leave a situation be. My experience to date suggests action. Theory is needed OSS is proof but action is what matters as a feminist. It can take many forms small things to grand gestures. even just a word in an ear a counter to a dodgy joke. whatever it is do it.